Potential Tropical Cyclone Four Could Affect South Carolina, Greenville: What to Know?

Overview of the Developing Tropical Storm

The tropical rainstorm currently wreaking havoc in Puerto Rico is expected to escalate into a full-fledged tropical storm before hitting Florida’s coast. This storm, currently developing over Cuba, can potentially impact regions in both South Carolina and North Carolina by mid-next week. Residents can expect heavy rainfall, chaotic surf, among other disturbances.

The First Advisory From National Hurricane Center

At 11 a.m. on Friday, the National Hurricane Center issued the first advisory for the so-called “potential tropical cyclone four.” The update showed the tropical depression hovering over Cuba, with a possible trajectory toward the Gulf of Mexico. From here, the storm could sway back over Florida and into the Atlantic. Although the cone of uncertainty does include a significant part of South Carolina, there are several variables at play, such as the exact course and intensity of this still-developing storm.

If It Becomes a Tropical Storm:

If the system fortifies into a tropical storm, as projected, it will earn the name Debby, marking the fourth named storm of the current season. The depression is presently located about 420 miles southeast of Key West. The hurricane center has put areas from East Cape Sable to Bonita Beach of the southwest coast on a tropical storm warning. A tropical storm watch is also in effect for specific regions like the Florida Keys, Dry Tortugas, parts of the southern coast, and the west coast all the way up to Aripeka.

Chances for Development

The depression holds the potential to transform into a tropical storm by late Saturday, on its passage over the Florida Keys.

Impact in the Greenville Area?

The weather forecasts for the upcoming week are heavily reliant on the development trajectory of the tropical cyclone. The extent of the storm’s reach to the north-northeast, influenced by the steering winds, moving towards Florida’s panhandle and back over land, will dictate the severity of weather disturbances. The current hurricane center update projects that the system will cross northern Florida by Sunday and re-enter the Atlantic by Monday morning. Predictions further show a chance of the storm scraping the coast as it moves towards the Carolinas. The variability of weather conditions can significantly impact the eventual path of the storm. Despite various uncertainties, NOAA’s weekend forecast predicts high temperatures in the 90s, with potential overnight showers and thunderstorms. As yet, no high winds have been forecasted.

Tracking Potential Tropical Cyclone Four

As of noon on August 2, the storm was located 90 miles east-southeast of Camaguey, Cuba, and 420 miles southeast of Key West. The storm is moving west-northwest at 16 mph, with maximum sustained winds of 30 mph.

Preparedness for a Hurricane

The hurricane season spans from June 1 to November 30. Even if this current system does not pose a substantial risk to the South Carolina coast, early preparedness is key. Residents are advised to be prepared and keep informed about the latest developments.