Tropical Storm Chantal has developed as the third named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season in 2025. Forming on Saturday off the southeastern coast of the United States, it has prompted alerts in South Carolina and North Carolina. According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), as of 9:00 am Eastern Time, the storm's center was positioned about 240 kilometers south-southeast of Charleston, South Carolina, and roughly 385 kilometers south-southwest of Wilmington, North Carolina.
Chantal's maximum sustained winds have reached 65 km/h, accompanied by stronger gusts, and it is moving northward at a sluggish pace of 3 to 4 km/h. The storm intensified early Saturday after being classified as Tropical Depression Three. It is projected to continue its slow progression northward or northwestward throughout Saturday, with a turn towards the northeast expected by Sunday night, crossing the South Carolina coast on Sunday morning.
Storm Alerts and Expected Impact
The NHC has issued a tropical storm warning for the coastal stretch from South Santee River, South Carolina, to Cape Fear, North Carolina. Tropical storm conditions are forecasted to arrive in these areas within 12 to 24 hours. Wind speeds equivalent to tropical storm strength extend up to 112 km mainly towards the east from the storm's center.
Intense gusts and storm surges ranging from 30 to 60 cm are anticipated, particularly along the northern coast of South Carolina and the southern coast of North Carolina. Additionally, Chantal may lead to rainfall accumulations between 50 and 100 mm in both states, with localized peaks up to 150 mm. Authorities warn of potential flash flooding, especially in regions already impacted by recent storms.
Coastal Risks During Holiday Weekend
Although Chantal is not expected to cause significant land damage, it poses a considerable coastal threat during the Fourth of July holiday weekend. Hazardous beach conditions, including strong waves and rip currents, pose a danger to the many beachgoers in the area.
Chantal is predicted to weaken rapidly after making landfall and may revert to a tropical depression by Sunday night, dissipating entirely over North Carolina by Monday. Authorities urge the public to remain informed and heed local guidance due to the potential for adverse weather conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tropical Storm Chantal
What areas are under tropical storm warnings because of Chantal?
The National Hurricane Center has issued tropical storm warnings for the coastal regions from South Santee River in South Carolina to Cape Fear in North Carolina.
What weather conditions are expected due to Chantal?
Chantal is expected to bring intense gusts, storm surges between 30 and 60 cm, and rainfall accumulations of 50 to 100 mm, with localized peaks up to 150 mm, potentially causing flash floods.
How will Chantal affect beach conditions during the holiday weekend?
Hazardous conditions such as strong waves and rip currents are expected, posing a threat to beachgoers during the Fourth of July weekend.