Charleston, South Carolina, September 30, 2025
News Summary
Tropical Storm Imelda has diverted its course and is now forecasted to remain offshore from South Carolina, bringing minimal rainfall and reducing flooding concerns. Governor McMaster has rescinded the state of emergency due to the updated predictions. However, residents are warned to prepare for minor-to-moderate coastal flooding and high surf conditions along the coast. Precautionary measures have been implemented, including the deployment of stormwater pumps. The storm could still impact local conditions, and authorities advise vigilance due to the unpredictable nature of weather systems.
Charleston, South Carolina – Tropical Storm Imelda has shifted its path, now expected to stay clear of South Carolina, according to meteorological forecasts. Forecasters have high confidence in this prediction, which comes as a relief to state residents. Currently, heavy rainfall is not anticipated, with projections of less than an inch along the coastline.
Earlier forecasts had predicted up to 12 inches of rain from Tropical Storm Imelda, but those predictions have undergone a significant revision. As of September 29, the storm system’s expected rainfall has been drastically curtailed, resulting in minimal concerns for flooding and storm-related damage in the state. Consequently, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster rescinded a previously declared state of emergency, noting that the state has managed to avoid the storm’s worst impacts.
Despite the lower rainfall expectations, the Charleston area has been warned to prepare for minor-to-moderate coastal flooding. Forecasts indicate that coastal flooding threats may begin on September 30, as winds and swells from Imelda interact with the afternoon high tides. Additionally, dangerous surf conditions are anticipated at local beaches, prompting a high surf advisory effective from September 29 until October 4.
In conjunction with these beach advisories, Charleston Harbor has been placed under a small craft advisory from noon on September 29 until 2 a.m. on October 1. The local authorities are advising vigilance; ocean conditions may pose risks for small vessels and recreational activities. Area leaders emphasize the necessity for residents to remain prepared for emergencies, given that environmental conditions can change rapidly.
Despite the calmer forecast for South Carolina, the U.S. has narrowly avoided widespread storms and severe flooding due to an unusual phenomenon known as the Fujiwhara Effect. This effect—characterized by the interaction and influence of two cyclone systems—has been active between Tropical Storm Imelda and Hurricane Humberto, successfully steering Imelda away from the American coastline.
As of September 29, Chief Meteorologist for the local weather team noted that various weather models showed a high degree of agreement that Imelda would remain offshore. Currently tracking northward, the storm is expected to turn east-northeast by Tuesday, heading towards Bermuda later in the week. Imelda has maximum sustained winds of approximately 65 mph, with tropical-storm-force winds reaching out 175 miles from its center, urging continued attentiveness from local agencies and residents.
In light of these weather developments, Charleston city officials and surrounding counties are taking precautionary measures, such as deploying stormwater pumps and suspending recreational programs in case conditions shift unexpectedly. The National Weather Service continues to stress the importance of staying updated on forecasts and being prepared as the hurricane season progresses.
FAQ
What is the current status of Tropical Storm Imelda’s impact on South Carolina?
Tropical Storm Imelda’s path has shifted to stay away from South Carolina with high confidence from forecasters. Heavy rain is not anticipated; an inch of rain or less is expected along the coastline.
What changes were made regarding the forecast for Imelda’s rainfall?
The forecast for Imelda’s rainfall drastically changed from a prediction of 6 to 12 inches to significantly lower totals.
What has Governor Henry McMaster stated about the storm’s impacts?
South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster rescinded the state of emergency on September 29, stating the state avoided the storm’s worst impacts.
Are there any warnings for coastal flooding in Charleston?
The Charleston area is warned of minor-to-moderate coastal flooding despite reduced rain expectations.
What safety measures have been implemented in Charleston due to the storm?
Charleston city officials and other counties have taken precautionary steps, including deploying stormwater pumps and closing recreational programs.
Key Features of Tropical Storm Imelda
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Storm Status | Expected to stay away from South Carolina with minimal rainfall. |
| Rainfall Prediction | Less than an inch expected, revised from 6 to 12 inches. |
| Governor’s Action | State of emergency rescinded on September 29. |
| Coastal Flooding Zones | Warnings for minor-to-moderate coastal flooding in Charleston. |
| Surf Conditions | High surf advisory from September 29 to October 4. |
| Maximum Winds | 65 mph with tropical-storm-force winds extending 175 miles from the center. |
| Fujiwhara Effect | Interaction with Hurricane Humberto is steering Imelda away from the coast. |
| Precautionary Measures | Deployment of stormwater pumps and suspension of recreational programs. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tropical Storm Imelda Brings Rainfall Concerns to Charleston, SC
Charleston Braces for Afternoon Scattered Thunderstorms Amid Development Debates
Charleston Declares Local State of Emergency Ahead of Tropical Storm Imelda
Additional Resources
- Live 5 News: Tropical Storm Imelda Forms
- ABC News: Forecast for Tropical Storm
- Weather.com: Tropical Storm Imelda Video
- Post and Courier: Charleston Area Flooding
- AccuWeather: Tropical Storm Imelda Threat
- Wikipedia: Tropical Cyclone
- Google Search: Tropical Storm Imelda
- Google Scholar: Tropical Storm Imelda
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tropical Storm Imelda
- Google News: Tropical Storm Imelda
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
