Columbia, SC – Heavy rainfall from Potential Tropical Cyclone Nine is expected to drench South Carolina and North Carolina early this week, with forecasters warning of widespread flooding risks through Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service, rainfall totals of 5 to 10 inches are expected across much of the Carolinas, with locally higher amounts near 8 to 10 inches likely in coastal and inland areas. The Weather Prediction Center noted that the system’s moisture, combined with a stalled front, will significantly increase the chance of flash flooding in both states.
The storm system, currently located east of the Bahamas, is forecast to strengthen into a tropical storm and possibly a hurricane as it moves northwest toward the Southeast coast. Forecasters expect heavy rain bands to begin affecting the region as early as Monday, continuing into Thursday morning.
The National Hurricane Center warns that in addition to flooding rainfall, damaging winds, dangerous rip currents, high surf, and coastal storm surge could impact low-lying and coastal communities. Rivers across South Carolina and North Carolina may also rise quickly, leading to additional flooding concerns inland.
Residents are urged to monitor official forecasts, prepare for potential flash flooding, and avoid driving through flooded roads. Local emergency managers advise having supplies ready in case of power outages or road closures.
