Chantal made landfall along the South Carolina coast early on Sunday, July 6, around 4:00 AM local time, near Litchfield Beach, according to the National Hurricane Center. The tropical storm is now moving inland and rapidly weakening, but it’s still bringing unstable weather conditions to parts of the region, especially across the eastern and northeastern Midlands.
Impacts expected across the eastern Midlands
While the worst of the storm will stay along the coast and areas east of Columbia, portions of the Midlands may still experience tropical downpours and strong gusty winds. The counties most affected include Kershaw, Sumter, Lee, Clarendon, Calhoun, and Orangeburg.
A Lake Wind Advisory is in effect until 8:00 AM Sunday for the easternmost counties, where wind gusts could reach up to 30 mph (48 km/h). These same areas will have a higher likelihood of locally heavy rainfall, especially in low-lying spots or places with poor drainage, where minor flooding cannot be ruled out.
Forecast for today, Sunday, July 6
Today will be mostly cloudy, with high temperatures around 85°F (29°C). Tropical showers will remain concentrated in the eastern and northeastern regions, with occasional gusty winds between 20 and 30 mph (32–48 km/h). The most intense weather is expected in the morning, with conditions improving by the afternoon, though a few isolated showers may still linger.
Hot, dry air returns early next week
As Chantal exits the region, drier air will move in beginning Monday, leading to a sharp warm-up. Highs will reach around 94°F (34°C) on Monday and climb to nearly 98°F (37°C) on Tuesday. The weather will be mostly sunny to partly cloudy, with rising humidity levels.
Storm chances return by midweek
Starting Wednesday, July 9, another unsettled pattern will move in, with a daily chance of scattered thunderstorms. Rain chances are around 50% on Wednesday, with highs in the mid-90s (around 34°C). On Thursday, rain chances increase to 60%, with highs near 91°F (33°C).
Stay weather-aware as Chantal continues to move through South Carolina, and prepare for rapidly changing conditions into the upcoming week.
