Nicole advancing to Florida and eventually South Carolina

  • A Tropical Storm Warning and Storm Surge Watch are in effect for the South Carolina coast south of the South Santee River.
  • There has been little change to the forecast since yesterday evening, and confidence has grown in the forecast track and intensity for Nicole.
  • Concern for isolated tornadoes has increased over most of the state, starting in the Lowcountry late Thursday, spreading northward, and ending on Friday.
  • Coastal flooding and storm surge flooding remain the primary concerns for the coastal areas. Each high tide through Friday morning will bring coastal flooding due to strong onshore winds and high astronomical tides.
  • Recent dry conditions across the state mean little or no risk for river flooding from rainfall associated with Nicole. However, there could be localized flash flooding where higher rainfall amounts occur.
  • The wind risk remains low overall, with the main area of concern near the coast in the Lowcountry. However, the combination of rain and locally gusty wind results in a slight risk for isolated tree and power line damage over most of the state.