Tropical Depression Three has developed off the Southeast coast. This system is expected to bring rain, gusty winds, and rip currents, but it is anticipated to be short-lived. The center of the system is currently situated approximately 150 miles south-southeast of Charleston, South Carolina, moving northward at a speed of less than 5 mph. It is projected to intensify into Tropical Storm Chantal before reaching the South Carolina coast on Sunday morning. A tropical storm watch has been issued from Edisto Beach, South Carolina, to Little River Inlet, South Carolina, indicating that tropical storm conditions with winds of 40+ mph may occur in these areas on Saturday night through Sunday morning. The primary impact of this system will be rainfall, with the Florida Peninsula and eastern Carolinas expected to experience the most widespread effects. Localized flooding is possible, with rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches in the eastern Carolinas and isolated amounts of up to 6 inches. Outdoor plans for the holiday weekend in these regions may be affected, so it is advisable to have an alternative plan and seek shelter from lightning. Gusty winds, minor coastal flooding, and storm surge of 1 to 2 feet above ground level are also anticipated along the Southeast coast. There will be an increased risk of rip currents over the holiday weekend, particularly in the Carolinas, so beachgoers should heed warning flags and avoid entering the water when red flags are posted.
