Tropical Storm Chantal, the first named storm of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season to make landfall in the United States, has now weakened into a tropical depression. However, it continues to bring heavy rain, gusty winds, and flash flooding threats across parts of North Carolina and the Mid-Atlantic region.
Landfall and Current Status
Chantal made landfall early Sunday morning near Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, with wind gusts reaching 50 mph and heavy rainfall. By Sunday afternoon, the storm had weakened to a tropical depression, but its remnants continue to fuel scattered thunderstorms and flash flooding, particularly in central and eastern North Carolina.
Flood Watches Issued
According to the National Weather Service and reports from ABC News, flood watches remain in effect across more than two dozen counties, including:
- Raleigh-Durham
- Fayetteville
- Greensboro
Rainfall of 2–4 inches is expected across the state, with some regions in the Piedmont and Sandhills possibly seeing over 6 inches. The flood watches will remain in effect through Monday, with flash flooding being the primary concern.
Severe Weather Threat Continues
The Washington Post reported that the storm’s circulation is still strong enough to trigger severe thunderstorms, including:
- Isolated tornadoes
- Strong wind gusts
- Hazardous surf and rip currents along the coastline from northeastern Florida to Virginia Beach
As the system moves northward, it’s expected to bring heavy rainfall to the Mid-Atlantic, including Washington D.C., eastern Virginia, southern Maryland, and Delaware by Monday night.
Looking Ahead: Where Is Chantal Headed?
- By early Tuesday, Chantal’s remnants will likely pass offshore near Cape Cod.
- Tropical moisture and an approaching front will keep the weather stormy in the Appalachians, Mid-Atlantic, and Northeast through midweek.
- North Carolina is forecast to experience spotty showers on Monday, followed by hot and humid conditions on Tuesday, with heat index values exceeding 100°F.
📍 Where did Tropical Storm Chantal make landfall?
Near Myrtle Beach, South Carolina on Sunday morning.
💨 Is Chantal still a tropical storm?
No, it has weakened to a tropical depression and is expected to dissipate by Tuesday.
🚨 Which areas are under flood watches?
Raleigh-Durham, Fayetteville, Greensboro, and other inland parts of central/eastern North Carolina.
🌧️ What should residents expect this week?
Heavy rainfall, flash flooding, stormy weather, and heatwave conditions—especially east of I-95 and into the Mid-Atlantic through Wednesday.
Residents are urged to monitor local weather alerts and follow safety guidance from emergency management officials as Chantal continues to impact the region.