A state of emergency has been declared in North Carolina and South Carolina ahead of an approaching tropical storm. Tropical Depression Nine intensified into Tropical Storm Imelda over the weekend, though the system is not anticipated to make direct landfall in the United States. Meteorologists predict the storm will linger near the Southeast coast, bringing heavy rainfall, high surf, strong winds, and potential coastal flooding.
The emergency declarations enable state resources and personnel to mobilize for preparedness efforts and facilitate federal reimbursement for any necessary response actions. South Carolina officials warned residents, particularly those along the coastline, to anticipate high winds, power outages, and significant rainfall as the storm approaches early next week. National Weather Service forecasts indicate a 90% likelihood of the disturbance escalating into a tropical storm over the weekend.
North Carolina Governor Josh Stein emphasized the need for vigilance, stating that heavy rain and flooding could affect the entire state despite uncertainties in the storm’s trajectory. While the system’s path remains unclear, meteorologists suggest it may either strike the Carolinas early next week or remain offshore, delivering sustained rainfall to coastal areas.
The National Hurricane Center initially warned of potential flooding in eastern North Carolina but later reduced the severity of the forecast. A hazardous weather outlook was issued for beach erosion, ocean overwash, and coastal flooding starting late Sunday along the Outer Banks and other coastal regions. As of 8 a.m. Sunday, Tropical Depression Nine maintained 35 mph winds and moved north-northwest at 7 mph.
Stein urged North Carolinians to prepare for tropical weather conditions, including heavy rainfall and flood risks, as the state of emergency remains in effect.
