Meteorology behind Chantal

Chantal began as a stalled frontal boundary off the Southeast coast. On July 4 a low-pressure system began to develop along the boundary. By July 5 the system developed a closed circulation and became Tropical Depression 3.

Later that day it strengthened to Tropical Storm Chantal. On July 6 Chantal further strengthened with winds of 60 mph before turning northwestward and making landfall in South Carolina. The system then weakened back to a tropical depression later that day.

Rainfall totals of 6-8 inches from Tropical Storm Chantal

Impacts

Chantal brought gusty winds and heavy rain to South Carolina and North Carolina along with life threatening rip currents. North Carolina has been particularly hit hard with rainfall amounts as much as 9 inches falling in central North Carolina.

There were also multiple reports of tornadoes including one that struck near Raleigh. Currently Chantal is still producing moderate to heavy rain in the Mid Atlantic with 1-3 inches possible.

Chantal bringing moderate to heavy rain to the Mid Atlantic

Future of the tropics

The Atlantic is expected to go through a quiet period over the next week. However, as we continue to approach the peak of hurricane season in late August, we will begin to see an uptake in tropical activity.

Even now as we approach the 1-year anniversary of Hurricane Beryl hitting Houston, make sure to be prepared. As always, we will continue to keep you updated on the tropics.

Dexter is the next name on the list

Anthony’s Weather Lab

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