Storm approaching Carolinas poses risks of heavy rain and flooding
The regions of North and South Carolina are preparing for strong winds, heavy rainfall, potential flooding, and even tornadoes as a Potential Tropical Storm Eight is set to impact the area starting Monday.
On Monday morning, the National Hurricane Center reported that the “low-pressure system” had not yet been categorized as a tropical storm but had gained some strength, moving northwest toward the South Carolina coast at 3 mph. It was located about 95 miles southeast of Charleston and had maximum sustained winds of 50 mph.
Should it develop into a tropical storm, it will be designated Helene, as it is the next name on the list. However, forecasters indicate that the likelihood of this occurring has decreased since the storm’s structure appeared less organized early Monday, and maximum wind speeds are anticipated to reduce as it nears the coast.
On Monday morning, a tropical storm warning was active for large parts of both states. Residents can expect “gusty winds, heavy rainfall, and coastal flooding,” the National Hurricane Center stated. Areas under this warning could still encounter winds classified as tropical-storm-force.
The storm is projected to deliver as much as 8 inches of rain to the most affected areas, with some locations potentially receiving up to 10 inches. The advisory noted that there could be “a couple” of tornadoes forming in the eastern parts of both states on Monday evening.
The heavy rainfall may lead to “significant flash and urban flooding” across the Carolinas and risk isolated flooding throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. Additionally, rivers in southeastern North Carolina and northeastern South Carolina may experience minor flood conditions through Monday night.
Latest updates:
∎ Predictions indicate elevated tides due to the full moon, along with large swells and strong northeast winds, could cause minor to moderate coastal flooding early this week, according to the weather service. Further storm development may heighten the risk of more significant coastal flooding.
∎ The system named Gordon has weakened and was downgraded to a tropical depression by 5 p.m. in the Atlantic, according to the National Hurricane Center, posing no threat to land.
Schools in North Carolina close due to storm
Due to the anticipated tropical storm conditions, some schools in North Carolina will remain closed on Monday.
Brunswick County Schools announced on Facebook that students are to remain home, while teachers have an optional workday.
Additionally, Brunswick Community College is also closing for the day due to the severe weather, holding classes remotely when possible.
Meanwhile, schools in New Hanover and Pender counties will continue to follow their regular schedule.
— Sherry Jones, Wilmington StarNews
Swimmers at risk on North Carolina’s Outer Banks
The Outer Banks of North Carolina are notorious for treacherous currents for swimmers. The new weather system has intensified this risk, according to a Sunday update from the weather service.
Fortunately, the most likely time for the occurrence of strong rip currents on Sunday was projected to be around low tide, which was just before noon. Nonetheless, rip currents remain a concern, and inexperienced swimmers are advised to avoid the ocean.
“Rip currents can pull even experienced swimmers away from shore into deeper waters,” the update cautioned. “Dangerous waves can thrust a swimmer or surfer headfirst into the ocean floor, resulting in neck and back injuries.”
Contributing: John Bacon and Thao Nguyen, YSL News