A tropical depression forming off the coast of Florida is gradually strengthening as it drifts northward toward the Carolinas, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC).
Designated Tropical Depression Three, the system developed Friday afternoon about 150 miles southeast of Charleston, South Carolina, but was first observed near the Florida coast. Meteorologists expect it to become a tropical storm by Saturday, with a projected landfall in South Carolina on Sunday morning.
As of the NHC’s 5 p.m. EDT advisory, the system had maximum sustained winds of 35 mph and was moving slowly north. A tropical storm watch is now in effect for South Carolina, from Edisto Beach to Little River Inlet, where tropical storm conditions are possible late Saturday into early Sunday.
South Carolina coastal residents are advised to brace for heavy rainfall, a chance of flash flooding, rough surf, rip currents, and a storm surge of 1 to 2 feet above ground level. Rainfall totals could reach up to 6 inches in some areas.
While the storm poses no direct threat to South Florida, it may bring scattered showers to the region. Its primary impacts will remain concentrated along the Carolinas’ coastline.
Last week, the Red Cross encouraged South Floridians to take proactive steps for the hurricane season:
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Create an Emergency Plan: Families—pets included—should know where they’ll shelter during a storm and plan evacuation routes in advance.
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Stock Up on Supplies: Households should gather enough water, non-perishable food, medications, important documents, flashlights, batteries, and device chargers for both an evacuation go-kit and a shelter-in-place kit.
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Protect Your Property: Residents are advised to secure or bring inside outdoor furniture, trim overhanging branches, and board up windows if necessary.
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Stay Informed: The Red Cross recommends downloading its free Emergency app, subscribing to local emergency alerts, and closely monitoring the news for weather updates.
