Charleston, S.C. – Gusty thunderstorms and pockets of heavy rainfall could trigger flash flooding and rip currents across Southeast South Carolina and coastal Georgia through mid-evening Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, a weak low-pressure system drifting north from Georgia into the Pee Dee region is fueling scattered storms. A sea breeze and trough will likely intensify the rain bands this afternoon, especially near Charleston, Beaufort, and Savannah. Some storms may produce wind gusts up to 50 mph and dangerous cloud-to-ground lightning.
Localized rainfall totals could exceed 2 inches in low-lying or poorly drained areas. Coastal cities including Hilton Head, Mount Pleasant, and Brunswick may see minor flooding during high tide around 5 p.m. Strong marine winds and reduced visibility could also disrupt boat traffic along the coast.
Lifeguard teams have reported elevated rip current risks since Wednesday, and similar conditions are expected today. Swimmers should use extreme caution at area beaches, particularly during the afternoon and evening hours.
This round of storms is expected to taper off later tonight, but conditions remain unstable. No formal alerts have been issued yet, but more updates could follow.
