Tropical Storm Chantal has become the third named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season., reinforcing meteorological activity in the region. Chantal strengthened early Saturday morning, developing off the southeastern coast of the United States, just southeast of Charleston, South Carolina. Throughout the weekend, it has put authorities and residents of South and North Carolina on alert, especially during the Fourth of July celebrations.
On Saturday afternoon, the center of Chantal was located about 160 miles from Charleston. and was moving slowly towards the coast, presenting sustained winds of around 64 to 65 kilometers per hour. The experts of the National Hurricane Center (NHC) They indicated that the storm could experience slight strengthening overnight, with the possibility of making landfall between Charleston and Myrtle Beach in the early hours of Sunday.
Expected impact and current warnings
The coastal stretch from South Santee River to Cape Fear The island remained under a tropical storm warning, with dangerous conditions expected to reach the region within 12 to 24 hours. Authorities warned of rising sea levels, with storm surges of 30 to 90 feet (XNUMX to XNUMX centimeters) expected in the hardest-hit areas. Rip currents and strong waves were also warned of, particularly dangerous during a holiday weekend with a large number of swimmers.
Rainfall associated with Chantal could range between 50 and 150 millimeters. in various areas of South and North Carolina, increasing the risk of flash flooding, especially in areas prone to or previously affected by storms. The public was advised to avoid unnecessary travel, avoid driving through flooded roads, and follow emergency warnings.
Chantal's evolution after landing
Chantal made landfall on Sunday morning. near Litchfield Beach, South Carolina, and then moving inland into North Carolina. The most recent data from the NHC They pointed to a gradual weakening after its entry into the land, estimating that the system would transform into a low pressure trough in the following 24 hours.
The center of the system was located about 20 miles southwest of Lumberton, North Carolina, with maximum sustained winds dropping to 35 mph. Although significant structural damage was not expected, the threat of flooding and power outages remained for coastal and inland areas, especially where rainfall was most abundant.
Repercussions, precautions and recommendations
State authorities and emergency teams were on alert to restrict access to beaches in Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina, given the dangerous sea conditions. Residents and tourists were advised to secure outdoor items, stock up on basic supplies, and prepare for possible power outages.
Chantal's bands continued to bring rain and thunderstorms on Monday., with accumulations of up to 15 centimeters in some places, maintaining the risk of flooding and concern about possible isolated tornadoes in coastal areas. NHC He asked people to follow updates and pay attention to local warnings, reminding them not to venture into areas with standing water.
Hurricane season and Chantal in the context of the 2025 Atlantic
Tropical Storm Chantal joins Andrea and Barry, which were the first named this season. NOAA forecasts a particularly active year in the Atlantic, with 13 to 19 named storms and up to 10 hurricanes expected, three to five of them potentially major. Although Chantal did not reach hurricane status, it did highlight the importance of remaining vigilant about the evolution of tropical systems in the Atlantic basin.
Chantal's formation and progress over the weekend coincided with elevated ocean temperatures., which facilitated its development, although marginal environmental conditions prevented rapid intensification. Despite its relative weakness compared to other cyclones, its impact on beaches and low-lying areas required continued alertness, especially on days of high tourist influx.
