Tropical storm warnings extended up to North Carolina as Chantal approaches

Tropical Storm Chantal poses a threat to the southeastern coast of the U.S., with storm warnings extending up to Surf City, North Carolina. The National Hurricane Center reported that the storm’s maximum sustained winds had increased to 60 mph as it moved north at a speed of 8 mph.

As of 2 a.m. on Sunday, Chantal’s center was located about 75 miles east-northeast of Charleston, South Carolina. The storm’s outer bands were already causing scattered showers and thunderstorms along the South and North Carolina coastline, leading to rough surf and dangerous rip currents.

Conditions are expected to worsen as the storm approaches the coast, with little change in strength anticipated before landfall, which is likely to occur before sunrise. Tropical storm conditions are set to begin Saturday evening for areas from South Santee River to Surf City, where a Tropical Storm Warning is in effect.

Heavy rainfall across the coastal Carolinas is expected to lead to flash flooding through Monday, with total rainfall estimates ranging from 2 to 6 inches. Minor storm surge is also predicted for parts of the Carolina coastline, with 1 to 3 feet of surge possible for areas under the Tropical Storm Warning.

Additionally, Chantal is forecasted to bring life-threatening surf and rip currents along the East Coast from northeastern Florida to the Mid-Atlantic states over the next few days. The storm is the third named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season, forming earlier than the average date of August 3, according to the National Hurricane Center.

As Chantal continues to progress, residents in the affected areas are urged to stay informed about the latest updates and follow any evacuation or safety instructions issued by local authorities. Stay safe and prepared during this active hurricane season.