Daytona Beach, FL — Tropical Storm Chantal, the third named storm of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, has formed off the coast of South Carolina and is expected to make landfall early Sunday morning. The system, which developed rapidly from a tropical depression on Friday, is crawling northward at just 2 mph with sustained winds of 40 mph.
🌧️ Rainfall and Flooding Risks
Forecasters warn of widespread rainfall across the Southeast, with 2–4 inches expected from northern Florida to the Delmarva Peninsula. Isolated areas, especially between Wilmington, NC and Myrtle Beach, SC, could see up to 8 inches, raising concerns for flash flooding in low-lying regions.
🌊 Coastal Hazards
Chantal’s slow movement and persistent onshore flow are expected to generate rough surf, rip currents, and minor storm surge. Coastal areas from Savannah to Jacksonville may experience beach erosion, while surge levels could reach 1–3 feet along the Carolinas.
💨 Wind and Tornado Threats
Although Chantal is not expected to intensify into a hurricane, wind gusts of 40–50 mph are forecast near the coast, with localized gusts up to 60 mph. These winds may cause tree damage and power outages. Additionally, isolated tornadoes are possible due to the storm’s inherent rotation.
📍 Projected Path and Timing
The storm is expected to make landfall near Georgetown, SC, around 8 a.m. Sunday, bringing heavy rain and gusty winds through Monday. As it moves inland, Chantal will weaken but continue to affect the Mid-Atlantic with cloud cover and scattered downpours.
🏖️ Safety Advisory
Officials urge residents and holiday travelers to avoid swimming due to dangerous rip currents and to monitor local alerts. Boaters are advised to stay off the water until conditions improve.
Stay tuned for updates as Chantal continues its slow march up the coast.
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