Myrtle Beach, South Carolina — Tropical Storm Chantal is making its presence felt across Coastal and Central Horry County and Georgetown County, where a Tropical Storm Warning remains in effect through Sunday. The system continues to deliver intense rain bands and scattered thunderstorms, especially across the coastline, with some reaching inland areas like the Pee Dee region.
As of this Saturday evening, Chantal is bringing heavy tropical downpours, with localized flooding possible due to quick ponding on roads. Rainfall intensities are expected to increase overnight, particularly as the storm core moves inland, likely making landfall near Georgetown County.
Horry County is expected to remain in the epicenter of this event, with the heaviest rainfall, strongest wind gusts, and a slight tornado risk. Rainfall totals across Horry and Georgetown Counties may reach 3 to 5 inches (76 to 127 mm), while areas farther inland, including the border belt and Pee Dee, could accumulate 1 to 3 inches (25 to 76 mm). A flood watch is now active for Horry County due to this significant rainfall forecast.
Maritime conditions are also becoming increasingly dangerous. The Grand Strand is under a high risk for rip currents from Saturday evening into Sunday, with wave heights building to 3 to 6 feet (0.9 to 1.8 meters). Beachgoers are strongly urged to avoid entering the ocean during this period.
Winds along the Grand Strand are expected to remain sustained between 20 to 30 mph (32 to 48 km/h) tonight, with gusts reaching 35 to 45 mph (56 to 72 km/h). Inland areas may experience sustained winds of 10 to 20 mph (16 to 32 km/h), with gusts up to 30 mph (48 km/h).
While the risk of tornadoes remains low, it is not completely ruled out. The greatest threat for any isolated spin-ups will be concentrated in Horry and Georgetown Counties, especially from Saturday evening into Sunday morning.
Stay connected with Storm Tracker 13 for continued coverage and updates as Tropical Storm Chantal progresses inland.
