Tropical Depression 3 Predicts Heavy Rains and Flooding in Southeast

• Tropical Depression 3 has formed northeast of Florida.
• The storm could become Tropical Storm Chantal by Saturday.
• Watches issued for southern South Carolina coast as storm approaches.

Tropical Depression 3 Expected to Strengthen Further

The National Hurricane Center has reported the formation of a Tropical Depression identified as Tropical Depression 3, located northeast of Florida. This weather system is forecasted to strengthen, potentially reaching Tropical Storm Chantal by Saturday. With the storm moving north at a slow pace of around 2 mph, it raises concerns along the southeastern coast, prompting authorities to take action in preparation for the impending weather event.

Tropical Storm Watches Issued for South Carolina Coast

As a precaution, the National Hurricane Center has issued tropical storm watches along the South Carolina coastline. These watches could be updated to warnings by Friday night, indicating a higher level of alert as the storm approaches. Chantal is anticipated to make landfall near Charleston late Saturday night or shortly after midnight on Sunday, with maximum sustained winds expected to reach 40 mph at that time, as it finally reaches the shore.

Heavy Rain and Flash Flooding Concerns Ahead

Rainfall is already being tracked across both South Carolina and North Carolina, with predictions indicating that total precipitation could range significantly. For South Carolina, totals may hit between 2 and 4 inches, while North Carolina could see heavier amounts as moisture is drawn in from the Atlantic, leading to totals exceeding 7 inches in some places. Flash flooding remains a key concern, although severe wind gusts are forecasted to likely stay below hurricane levels, they may still reach 40 mph along the coast as the storm nears.

Tropical Depression 3 is intensifying as it approaches the southeastern United States, with watches and warnings in effect along the South Carolina coast. Rainfall presents a significant threat, especially in North Carolina, where totals could exceed 7 inches. As the situation unfolds, further monitoring of wind gusts and rain levels will be essential for public safety.