Carolina Coast Faces Tropical Storm Warning as Low-Pressure System Approaches
Charleston, South Carolina – The east coast is bracing for severe weather as a low-pressure system off the coast is expected to bring high winds, heavy rainfall, and potential flooding starting Monday. The National Hurricane Center has issued a tropical storm warning for the Carolinas, indicating that the system could strengthen to a tropical storm before making landfall.
Current Situation
As of late Sunday, the storm was reported to be moving slowly with sustained winds of approximately 45 mph. The system was located around 125 miles east-southeast of Charleston and 180 miles south-southwest of Cape Lookout, North Carolina. The National Hurricane Center stated that the system could reach the coastline sometime on Monday.
This weather system, classified as a potential tropical cyclone, is likely to strengthen as it passes over warmer waters and areas with less wind shear. Meteorologists have stated that there is a chance of isolated tornadoes occurring across the eastern Carolinas due to the conditions of this storm.
Rainfall and Flooding Concerns
The National Weather Service in Wilmington, North Carolina, warned that flash flooding is a significant risk through Tuesday morning. Locations near rivers, streams, and other low-lying areas are particularly at risk. Rainfall amounts over the coming days are expected to reach between 4 to 8 inches in many regions, with the possibility of exceeding 20 inches in some spots.
AccuWeather has stated that heavy rain is forecasted to begin as soon as Sunday night across parts of North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. Additionally, these storms may cause coastal flooding, rip currents, and beach erosion from northeastern Florida up to Delaware.
Coastal Impacts
With the arrival of the storm, the weather service expects elevated tides caused by the full moon and larger swells from strong northeast winds. This may lead to minor or potentially moderate coastal flooding early in the week. Meteorologists have cautioned residents of the Outer Banks and surrounding areas to be particularly vigilant due to the dangerous currents that can arise from such storms.
The storm’s impact goes beyond heavy rain and wind. There are reports of access roads potentially being blocked or damaged by high water and erosion. Beachfront properties could also face risks as the storm approaches.
Additional Weather Developments
In addition to the potential tropical storm threatening the Carolinas, other weather systems are also in play. The storm known as Ileana was downgraded to a tropical depression after affecting Mexico’s tourism areas. Meanwhile, another storm, named Gordon, has weakened in the Atlantic and poses no threat to land.
Preparation and Safety
Residents in the areas affected by the tropical storm warning should take this opportunity to prepare their homes for possible power outages and flooding. It is essential to monitor local alerts and stay indoors during severe weather conditions. Experts recommend staying away from the water, as the risk of rip currents remains high, posing dangers even to experienced swimmers.
The weather service has alerted that conditions will worsen into Monday, as the low-pressure system is expected to approach the coastline and may develop further into a tropical storm. Continued attention to weather updates and advisories will be crucial in the coming days.
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
