Anticipated Tropical Storm Chantal to Deliver Hefty Rainfall over the Carolinas
Tropical Storm Chantal made landfall near Litchfield Beach, South Carolina, early on July 6, 2025, with maximum sustained winds near 50-60 mph. The storm, which formed off the southeast U.S. coast, has been a cause for concern in the Carolinas, with tropical storm warnings issued for portions of the region.
As the storm's center moved over South Carolina overnight or early Sunday, heavy rainfall became an increasing concern. Radar estimates show 4 to 6 inches of rain in a swath from northern South Carolina into southeastern North Carolina, with forecasts warning of 2 to 4 inches and locally up to 6 inches continuing through Monday. This heavy rainfall raises concerns about flash flooding, especially in central and eastern North Carolina.
Wind gusts up to 56 mph were recorded on the coast, with potential damage from strong winds including downed trees and damaged roofs. A confirmed tornado touched down near Wilmington, causing tree and roof damage. There were earlier warnings about isolated tornadoes along the coast.
A storm surge of 1 to 2 feet was possible from areas including South Santee, SC, with minor coastal flooding warned by emergency management officials. Lifeguards reported rescues due to dangerous surf conditions.
Residents were advised not to drive on flooded roads or ignore closure signs. The National Hurricane Center in Miami issued the warnings, urging residents to stay informed and heed any safety advisories.
Chantal was expected to weaken further as it moved northeastward through the Carolinas, with tropical storm warnings being canceled in some areas but heavy rain continuing through Monday. The storm is currently moving north at 8 mph, with its center located about 65 miles east of Charleston, South Carolina, and 120 miles south-southwest of Wilmington, North Carolina.
In summary, Tropical Storm Chantal's landfall brought moderate winds, significant rainfall with flood risk, isolated tornado activity, and coastal flooding to the Carolinas. The system is weakening but still poses flash flooding and localized severe weather hazards through early July 7, 2025. Residents are advised to stay safe and follow all safety advisories.
The meteorological details of Tropical Storm Chantal indicate that it has an environmental science impact, particularly on the weather patterns, as it brought moderate winds, heavy rainfall with flood risk, isolated tornado activity, and coastal flooding to the Carolinas. Furthermore, the storm's environmental-science implications extend to potential flash flooding and localized severe weather hazards in the region, lasting through early July 7, 2025.
