Tropical Storm Chantal makes landfall in South Carolina, causing severe weather warnings

On July 6, 2025, Tropical Storm Chantal made landfall near Litchfield Beach along the South Carolina coast, bringing with it significant weather impacts. Initially, the storm was about 75 miles east of Charleston and was strengthening before making landfall. At its peak, the storm had maximum sustained winds of 60 mph as it approached. Upon landfall, it weakened slightly to 50 mph but maintained its trajectory northward. Emergency management officials warned residents of potential hazards including flash flooding, rough surf, and possible tornadoes in the surrounding regions. The storm is expected to produce heavy rainfall across parts of Northeastern South Carolina and into North Carolina, with forecasts indicating rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches, and local amounts could reach up to 6 inches, particularly in areas where the heaviest rain occurs. The increased moisture brought by Chantal is expected to aggravate existing local weather conditions, increasing humidity levels in a region that was already experiencing typical summer weather patterns. Warnings for flash flooding have been issued across various counties. The National Hurricane Center reported that conditions created by the storm, such as higher winds and storm surge, along with elevation changes in the land, combined to create risks for flooding in normally dry areas along the coastal regions. Residents were warned not to drive on water-covered roads or ignore road closure signs as conditions worsen. This weather event is occurring as part of a typical pattern of tropical systems that can affect the Southeast United States during the Atlantic hurricane season. While Chantal is expected to weaken rapidly as it moves inland, it highlights the ongoing risks associated with storms during the summer months in the region.