Savannah, GA – Coastal Georgia and South Carolina are on alert this weekend as Tropical Depression Nine advances northward, expected to strengthen into a tropical storm and bring hazardous conditions to the region early next week.
According to the National Hurricane Center’s Saturday night update, the system is lifting through the Bahamas with maximum sustained winds of 35 mph and is forecast to become a tropical storm by Sunday. The projected track keeps the storm offshore, but tropical storm force wind gusts and dangerous surf are likely to affect both states’ coastlines beginning Monday.
Local communities are already moving into preparation mode. Cities including Savannah, Hilton Head, and Charleston began distributing sandbags to residents Saturday, warning of potential flooding in low-lying neighborhoods. Emergency managers also cautioned boaters to secure vessels as seas are expected to turn rough by late Sunday.
Forecasters warn of high rip current risks, beach erosion, and gusty winds of 35 to 45 mph through much of next week. While the storm’s exact path remains uncertain, officials stressed that hazardous conditions extend well beyond the forecast cone.
Residents along the coast are urged to stay alert, monitor forecasts closely, and prepare for shifting conditions as the system strengthens offshore.
For the latest updates, visit weather.gov or hurricanes.gov.
