Tropical Storm Chantal makes landfall threat real for Carolinas as heavy rain, rip currents and flooding risks rise across coastal South
When and where will Tropical Storm Chantal make landfall?
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What coastal hazards are expected along the Carolinas and Georgia?
What should residents do to prepare for Tropical Storm Chantal?
Emergency Kits: Stock up on food, water, flashlights, batteries, first-aid supplies, and necessary medications.
Evacuation Plans: Know your evacuation route and have transportation ready if needed.
Home Safety: Secure outdoor furniture, clean gutters, and check that drains are clear to reduce flood risk.
Stay Informed: Follow updates from the National Hurricane Center, NOAA, and local weather offices.
When does hurricane season peak and what's next after Chantal?
What are local authorities and emergency agencies saying?
'A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for… South Santee River, SC to Cape Fear, NC. A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for… Edisto Beach to South Santee River, SC.'
Is Tropical Storm Chantal a sign of what's to come?
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Tropical Storm Chantal has officially become the third named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC). As of 8:00 a.m. EDT on July 5, 2025, Chantal was located just off the coast of South Carolina, moving northward at a very slow speed of 2 mph. With maximum sustained winds clocking in at 40 mph, the storm is currently posing significant threats to parts of the U.S. Southeast coast — especially along the Carolinas.A Tropical Storm Warning has been issued for southeast North Carolina, particularly the Wilmington area. This means tropical storm conditions are expected within 36 hours. Coastal communities from South Santee River, South Carolina, to Cape Fear, North Carolina, are urged to stay alert.Tropical Storm Chantal might not be strong in terms of wind speed, but its biggest danger lies in the heavy rainfall and flash flooding it could bring. The NHC warns that the storm is likely to dump 2 to 6 inches of rain across parts of South Carolina and North Carolina — especially between Charleston and Hatteras. Some isolated areas could see even higher rainfall totals, making flash flooding a real concern, especially in low-lying regions near the border of the Carolinas.According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, flooding may be moderate in areas east of Interstate 95. This raises the potential for road closures, water rescues, or even evacuations if rainfall persists over the weekend. Local authorities are on high alert and encouraging residents to prepare emergency kits and evacuation plans.At this time, Tropical Storm Chantal is projected to make landfall somewhere between Charleston and Myrtle Beach in South Carolina. While the storm is moving slowly, landfall is expected late Saturday or early Sunday, depending on changes in speed and direction. The storm's slow movement means prolonged exposure to rain, which increases the likelihood of localized flooding.The NHC has also issued a Tropical Storm Watch from Edisto Beach to South Santee River in South Carolina, meaning tropical storm conditions are possible in the area, but not yet certain. Residents in these areas should remain weather-aware and follow local advisories.While the rain is the biggest inland threat, dangerous surf and rip currents are expected along the coast from Georgia up through North Carolina. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), several coastal areas are now under a "high risk" alert for rip currents, particularly around the beaches near Wilmington, Charleston, and down toward Savannah.Waves could reach heights of up to six feet, which poses serious danger to swimmers and surfers. Local beach patrols are likely to restrict access or enforce red flag warnings. Officials are advising beachgoers to stay out of the water entirely until conditions improve.With the Atlantic hurricane season in full swing, NOAA is urging all residents in the storm's projected path to review their emergency plans and check their flood insurance coverage, especially since flood policies typically have a 30-day waiting period before taking effect.The NHC and NOAA both stress that even if Chantal doesn't become a hurricane, tropical storms can still be deadly, especially when flooding and rip currents are involved.The Atlantic hurricane season officially runs from June 1 to November 30, but it tends to peak between mid-August and mid-October. Chantal is the third named storm this season, which indicates that things are beginning to pick up in terms of storm activity.Meteorologists are watching closely for further developments as the Atlantic basin warms and conditions become more favorable for storm formation. With sea surface temperatures already high, experts expect an above-average hurricane season, so preparedness is key for all coastal states.The Wilmington National Weather Service office has warned that 'moderate flooding is possible east of I-95,' and people living in flood-prone zones should prepare for rapid changes in weather and water levels. In addition, the National Hurricane Center advisory released on July 5 states:With these alerts in place, communities across South Carolina and North Carolina are bracing for a wet and potentially dangerous weekend. Many local shelters are on standby, and city officials have asked residents to limit travel during peak rain hours.While Chantal isn't a powerful storm in terms of wind speeds, it serves as a reminder that even low-category tropical storms can cause high-impact weather events, especially in coastal and low-lying areas. The combination of slow movement, heavy rainfall, and rough surf makes Chantal a real threat for flooding and beach hazards.NOAA and NHC are expected to release updated forecasts throughout the day and into the weekend. Stay connected with trusted weather sources and local government updates to ensure your safety.With the Atlantic season just beginning to heat up, this may only be the start. Taking Chantal seriously — even as a tropical storm — is critical for protecting lives and property. Stay safe, stay informed, and be ready.Tropical Storm Chantal is expected to make landfall between Charleston and Myrtle Beach.Chantal may cause flash floods, heavy rain, and dangerous rip currents along the Carolinas.
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