PTC8 Set to Become Tropical Storm Helene, While Tropical Depression Gordon Struggles in the Atlantic

As of 10 PM CDT, Potential Tropical Cyclone Eight continues to move slowly off the coast of the Carolinas. The system is centered about 125 miles southeast of Charleston, South Carolina, and 180 miles southwest of Cape Lookout, North Carolina, moving northwest at 5 mph. The system is expected to become Tropical Storm Helene overnight or by early Monday morning, bringing heavy rains, gusty winds, and coastal flooding to the region. Maximum sustained winds are near 45 mph, and some strengthening is possible before landfall on Monday. Rainfall amounts of 3 to 6 inches, with isolated totals of 8 inches, are forecast for northern South Carolina and coastal North Carolina, leading to scattered flash flooding and urban flooding.

A storm surge of 1 to 3 feet is expected from the South Santee River to Oregon Inlet, NC, including Neuse and Bay Rivers, which could lead to coastal flooding in low-lying areas. Tropical storm warnings remain in effect from Edisto Beach, SC, to Ocracoke Inlet, NC. Coastal residents are urged to monitor local weather updates and prepare for heavy rain, flooding, dangerous surf, and possible isolated tornadoes on Monday.

Tropical Depression Gordon is barely holding on as a tropical system. As of 10 PM CDT, Gordon is located about 1,070 miles east of the northern Leeward Islands, with maximum sustained winds near 30 mph. The depression is moving west at 7 mph and is expected to slow down and possibly turn northward later this week. With limited convection and battling dry air, Gordon could become a post-tropical remnant low at any time. Currently, there are no coastal impacts or warnings in effect, and no significant strengthening is expected in the coming days.

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