Columbia, South Carolina – Isolated tornadoes could spin up along the South Carolina and North Carolina coastlines beginning Sunday morning as Tropical Depression Three moves closer to the Southeast U.S.
According to the National Hurricane Center, tropical storm conditions and scattered flash flooding are expected across the Carolina coastal plain from Saturday night through Monday. The system, located off the Southeast coast early Saturday, is forecast to bring winds of 39 mph or higher, with the earliest tropical-storm-force gusts possible by 8 p.m. Saturday along the Georgia-South Carolina border.
Communities from Charleston to Wilmington may see brief tornadoes embedded in rain bands Sunday into early Monday. Flash flood risks are highest in urban areas and low-lying coastal zones, especially where rainfall totals could exceed 3 inches in a short period. Roads along U.S. 17 and I-95 may experience standing water or debris from strong wind gusts.
Beachgoers are urged to stay out of the surf, with dangerous rip currents and rough seas forecast from northeastern Florida through Virginia. Residents should secure loose outdoor items, avoid unnecessary travel, and monitor NOAA Weather Radio for updated watches and warnings.
Tropical Storm Watches remain in effect, and additional advisories are likely as the storm moves northward Sunday night.
