Tropical Depression Nine Threatens Southeast US With Floods and Winds

MIAMI (AP) — A dangerous tropical weather system is brewing in the Atlantic Ocean as Tropical Depression Nine formed Saturday between Cuba and the Bahamas, bringing potential threats to the Southeast U.S. The storm could strengthen into Tropical Storm Imelda by Sunday and possibly a Category 1 hurricane by early next week.

The National Hurricane Center reported that the depression has maximum sustained winds of 35 mph. As it approaches the Southeast coast, flooding rain, coastal storm surge, damaging winds, and dangerous surf are expected to threaten residents, particularly starting Monday.

Tropical storm warnings were issued for the Bahamas, while Florida has tropical storm watches for its east coast from Palm Beach County to Volusia County. Coastal areas should prepare for possible tropical storm-force winds, though forecasts suggest the storm will likely remain offshore.

Forecast models indicate that the storm’s center is expected to move across the Bahamas this weekend and toward the Southeast coast. It may slow down near South Carolina, leading to heavy rain and coastal flooding even without making landfall.

The National Weather Service is predicting up to 10 inches of rain in the Carolinas, especially concerning as the region could become saturated rapidly. Onshore winds could drive storm surge into low-lying areas, causing additional flooding risks.

South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster has activated response plans and warned residents to be prepared for high winds and flooding. “We know we’re going to have high winds, we know we’re going to have a lot of water,” McMaster said during a news conference.

In Charleston, a local state of emergency was declared, with city officials working to distribute sandbags and clear storm drains ahead of the storm. North Carolina’s Governor Josh Stein also issued a state of emergency, mobilizing resources and rescue teams.

Amid this, Hurricane Humberto has been tracking across warm waters, intensifying into a Category 4 storm, with winds reaching 145 mph. Although not directly threatening the U.S., its size and position could influence the development of future Imelda.

The National Hurricane Center noted uncertainty in forecasting Imelda’s path, as its trajectory will depend on Humberto’s movement and another weather system over the continental U.S. While models suggest variations, the potential for serious flooding remains a concern, especially should the storm stall offshore.

Residents from the Bahamas to the U.S. East Coast are urged to stay informed and prepared as forecasts for Tropical Depression Nine evolve.