Tropical Storm Chantal came ashore early Sunday morning near Litchfield Beach, South Carolina, with sustained winds of 50 mph. The National Hurricane Center reported the storm’s center was about 70 miles northeast of Charleston at landfall around 4 a.m.
Storm Brings Strong Winds and Rain to Carolinas
Tropical storm warnings remained in effect from South Santee River, South Carolina, to Surf City, North Carolina, including Myrtle Beach. Peak winds in these areas were expected to reach 20-30 mph, with gusts up to 45 mph. A watch for areas further south, including Charleston, was canceled after landfall.
Flash Flooding Threat Continues
Heavy rainfall from Chantal’s outer and inner bands is producing flash flooding risks. Rain totals of 2 to 4 inches are expected across the Carolinas, with isolated spots seeing up to 6 inches. Flood watches were issued for coastal and inland areas, including Myrtle Beach, Fayetteville, and Raleigh.
Storm Weakening as it Moves Inland
Chantal began weakening shortly after landfall and is expected to become a tropical depression later Sunday before dissipating by Monday. Scattered thunderstorms and gusty winds will continue to affect the region throughout the day, along with minor storm surge of 1 to 3 feet during high tide along the Carolina coast.
Early Arrival in Hurricane Season
Chantal is the third named storm of the Atlantic season, which typically doesn’t see its third storm until early August.
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