Sun Sep 15 14:13:13 UTC 2024: ## Tropical Storm Threatens Carolinas, Bringing Heavy Rain and Potential Flooding

**WILMINGTON, NC** – A low-pressure system swirling off the Carolina coast is poised to develop into a tropical storm, threatening the region with days of high winds, heavy downpours, and coastal flooding. The National Hurricane Center issued a tropical storm warning for the coastlines of both South Carolina and North Carolina.

The system, currently located about 125 miles east-southeast of Charleston, South Carolina, is expected to reach the coast on Monday and could strengthen into a tropical storm overnight or early Monday morning.

The National Weather Service in Wilmington, North Carolina, warned of potential flash flooding through Tuesday morning, particularly in low-lying areas and along rivers, creeks, and streams. Low-end tropical storm-force winds are expected Sunday night along the coast, and the hurricane center cautioned that the storm could spawn tornadoes Monday across eastern North Carolina.

AccuWeather forecasts rainfall totals of 4-8 inches across parts of North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia, with some areas potentially receiving over 20 inches. Coastal flooding, rip currents, and beach erosion are expected from northeastern Florida to Delaware.

The full moon’s high tides, large swells, and strong northeast winds are expected to exacerbate coastal flooding early in the week. The Outer Banks of North Carolina, already known for dangerous currents, face heightened risk, with the weather service advising inexperienced swimmers to avoid the water.

This storm is considered a rare “homegrown” development, as most tropical systems during hurricane season form far to the south in the central Atlantic. Landfall is most likely near the North Carolina-South Carolina border late Monday.

Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Gordon has weakened to a tropical depression and poses no threat to land. Tropical Depression Ileana, which made landfall in Mexico as a tropical storm, is also forecast to further weaken.

The menacing weather front near the Carolinas could bring gusts up to 80 mph, potentially causing power outages and blocking access roads to barrier islands. Beachfront homes are also at risk.

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