Tropical Depression Three Forms Off The Southeast Coast

Tropical Depression Three brings stormy weather and potential flooding to the Southeast coast.

News Summary

A new tropical system, Tropical Depression Three, has formed off the Southeast coast, raising concerns for residents in South Carolina. With maximum sustained winds of 35 mph, the depression is anticipated to strengthen into Tropical Storm Chantal. Heavy rainfall and gusty winds are expected across the region, particularly from Edisto Beach to Little River Inlet. A tropical storm watch is in effect, and localized flooding may occur as rainfall totals reach up to 6 inches in some areas. Residents are advised to stay cautious and prepared for changing conditions.

Tropical Depression Three Forms Off The Southeast Coast

Just when you thought you’d heard enough about tropical weather, here comes the **_Tropical Depression Three_**! This new system has sprung up more than **150 miles south-southeast of Charleston, South Carolina**, and it’s expected to make its presence felt across the Southeast coast. As of 5 p.m. ET on July 4, 2025, **maximum sustained winds** were clocked at about **35 mph**, but don’t let that fool you! This depression isn’t going to stay a depression for long; it’s projected to get stronger and become **_Tropical Storm Chantal_** by Sunday morning.

What to Expect This Weekend

Circle your calendars, folks, because **Saturday, July 5** is when this tropical system will likely start tracking northward towards South Carolina. Now, if you’re in that neck of the woods—specifically from **Edisto Beach to Little River Inlet**—you’ll want to pay close attention. A **tropical storm watch** has already been issued, which means you could experience gusty winds exceeding **40 mph**. Just imagine that wind in your hair if you’re walking by the beach!

Rainfall and Flooding Risks

Heavy rain is also on the menu, especially for those in the Florida Peninsula and the eastern Carolinas, where rainfall totals could reach **2 to 4 inches**. Some areas might even see isolated spots getting drenched with up to **6 inches**. While localized flooding is possible, so don’t be surprised if your neighborhood looks a bit different this weekend, widespread flooding is not anticipated.

Coastal Warnings and Safety Precautions

Along with the rain, prepare for some **gusty winds** and **minor coastal flooding** due to this system. There’s even a **storm surge** predicted to reach between **1 to 2 feet** above ground level in the areas under the tropical storm watch. If you’re planning on hitting the beach, make sure to keep an eye out for those warning flags. The risk of rip currents will be elevated, especially along the Carolinas’ coast, so tread carefully if you decide to dive into the surf!

Movement and Future Forecast

In terms of movement, this depression has been nearly stationary but is expected to shift slowly toward the **north-northwest** on Saturday, followed then by a move **northward Saturday night**. By Sunday, it’s predicted to take a northeastern trajectory. Even if this system does not strengthen into Chantal right away, you can still expect heavy rain across coastal Georgia and North Carolina. So, hang onto your hats, folks—it’s going to be a wet and wild weekend!

What Lies Ahead

The **Atlantic hurricane season** is already shaping up to be one for the books, with forecasts suggesting the potential for up to **19 named storms** this year. The mix of climatic factors at play means we are likely to see more activity than usual. An **Air Force Reserve Hurricane Hunter aircraft** is on its way to survey this storm, bringing back crucial data to help monitor its progression. Keep those umbrellas handy, and maybe stay tuned for what else this tropical season has in store!