Carolinas brace for potential tropical cyclone

Sections of North and South Carolina are under a tropical storm warning as Potential Tropical Cyclone Eight makes its way toward land Monday afternoon. The storm is expected to bring tropical storm force winds, which range from 39-73 mph, beginning Monday night. It’s also expected to bring heavy rain, and coastal flooding, according to the National Hurricane Center. The storm has a moderate chance of forming into a tropical storm and will bring a swath of flash flood risks through Wednesday, the NHC added.

How are states responding? Potential Tropical Cyclone Eight will soon become Tropical Storm Helene, according to the South Carolina Emergency Management Division. Experts expect the storm to make landfall north of Charleston on Monday afternoon, bringing up to 6 inches of rain to the state, along with storm surge and flash flooding. Officials encouraged residents to verify their emergency kits were stocked with essentials like batteries and water, and to stay informed on the progression of the storm.

North Carolina Emergency Management also notified residents of tropical storm warnings issued for coastal areas south of the Ocracoke Inlet which may experience winds up to 40 mph. The coastal area of Brunswick County, which includes part of the city of Wilmington, may receive up to 60 mph winds, the NCEM warned.