Tropical Depression Three Nears Carolinas, Chantal Expected

Tropical Depression Three has formed about 150 miles south-southeast of Charleston, South Carolina, and is forecast to strengthen into Tropical Storm Chantal by Saturday as it moves northward, possibly making landfall near the South Carolina coast on Sunday. Tropical Storm Watches are in effect for the South Carolina coastline, with residents advised to prepare for gusty winds, periods of heavy rainfall, a 1 to 2-foot storm surge, and localized flooding in the eastern Carolinas. Dangerous beach conditions and elevated rip current risks are expected from Florida through the Carolinas over the holiday weekend. While Florida will mainly experience heavy rain and thunderstorms, central parts of the state face a flash flood threat but will be on the weaker side of the system. The depression is expected to be short-lived, moving out to sea by early next week with diminishing impacts after Sunday. Widespread severe impacts are not anticipated, but some disruptions to outdoor plans are likely.