Tropical Storm could develop along the Carolinas Coast this week

The National Hurricane Center continues to monitor an area of low pressure off the coast of South Carolina. This low pressure developed along a frontal boundary this weekend and has gradually organized, and could develop into a Tropical Depression or Tropical Storm Helene this upcoming week as it feeds off the warm Gulf Stream.

This low pressure has been given a 50% chance to develop over the next 24 to 48 hours as it moves north northwestward approaching the Carolinas.

Low pressure the NHC is monitoring

Regardless of this system developing, whether that's tropical or subtropical, it'll bring impacts to coastal parts of the Southeast, including the Carolinas, and the Mid-Atlantic through the first half of this upcoming week. Rough seas and large waves as well as storm surge and beach erosion are possible for coastal areas, especially for the Outer Banks. And, the big concern is gusty squalls that produce heavy rain that could lead to areas of freshwater flooding. A widespread 2-4 inches of rain is expected from the Carolinas into the Mid-Atlantic with isolated amounts of 5-7 inches from Monday through Wednesday of this week along coastal North Carolina into southeastern Virginia and along the east facing slopes of the higher terrain in Virginia.

Rain forecast this week from the WPC

If you live in these areas, keep a close eye on the forecast and never cross a road covered by water.