Charlotte, NC, September 30, 2025
News Summary
Tropical Storm Imelda, formed in the Atlantic, is expected to strengthen into a hurricane, affecting coastal regions including Georgia and the Carolinas. Governor Stein of North Carolina has declared a state of emergency amidst warnings of heavy rains and potential flooding. Although the storm is projected to curve away from the U.S. East Coast, rainfall estimates of 2-4 inches and hazardous conditions are still forecasted for areas like Wilmington and Myrtle Beach. Residents are advised to remain vigilant and prepared as the storm’s situation evolves.
Charlotte, NC – Tropical Storm Imelda, which formed in the Atlantic on Sunday, is expected to strengthen into a hurricane later this week as it tracks away from the Southeast U.S. While the storm has already impacted the Bahamas and Cuba with rain and rough seas, its trajectory suggests a curve away from the U.S. East Coast. On Tuesday, it is projected to approach the Georgia and South Carolina coasts as a strong tropical storm or potentially a Category 1 hurricane.
As of the National Hurricane Center’s update at 8 p.m. on Monday, Imelda has sustained winds of 65 mph and is moving north at 9 mph. It is forecast to intensify into a hurricane by Tuesday and is expected to approach Bermuda on Wednesday, prompting the issuance of a Hurricane Watch for the island.
In North Carolina, Governor Josh Stein declared a state of emergency ahead of possible heavy rain and flooding. Despite the lowering threat of flooding due to the likelihood of no landfall, rainfall amounts of 2-4 inches are forecasted around Wilmington and Myrtle Beach. Additionally, the potential for strong and persistent northeast winds along the Outer Banks raises concerns regarding coastal flooding and erosion.
Residents of Wrightsville Beach are encouraged to stay prepared, although evacuation orders are not expected. Emergency management officials in North Carolina have distributed free preparedness kits that include flashlights and first aid supplies, reinforcing the importance of readiness. The Governor linked the urgency of preparedness to recent events in Southport, relating it to the need for vigilance.
The storm, located approximately 140 miles north of Great Abaco Island in the Bahamas, is creating hazardous conditions such as dangerous rip currents, surfing hazards, beach erosion, and coastal flooding. Forecasts are complicated by another storm, Hurricane Humberto, which could lead to the Fujiwhara effect, potentially altering the path and intensity of Imelda.
Overall, while South Carolina initially prepared for the storm with emergency declarations, these were lifted as predictions of impact reduced. Although the storm is not anticipated to make landfall within the U.S., the coastal regions may still face significant weather effects, compounded by swells and rough surf from both Imelda and Humberto.
Residents along affected coastlines are urged to remain vigilant and prepared as the situation evolves.
Key Features of Tropical Storm Imelda
- Formed: Sunday in the Atlantic.
- Current Status: Strong tropical storm expected to strengthen into a hurricane.
- Current Winds: 65 mph, moving north at 9 mph.
- Projected Rainfall: 2-4 inches in Wilmington and Myrtle Beach.
- Emergency Declarations: Declared by Governor Josh Stein in North Carolina.
- Hurricane Watch: For Bermuda expected on Wednesday.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of Tropical Storm Imelda?
Tropical Storm Imelda has sustained winds of 65 mph and is moving north at 9 mph. It is expected to become a hurricane later this week.
Where is Tropical Storm Imelda expected to impact?
Imelda is expected to approach the Georgia and South Carolina coasts on Tuesday and Bermuda on Wednesday.
What preparations have been made in North Carolina?
Governor Josh Stein declared a state of emergency; free preparedness kits have been distributed to residents.
Is Imelda expected to make landfall in the U.S.?
No, Tropical Storm Imelda is not expected to make landfall in the U.S., but it may still impact weather conditions in coastal areas.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Coastal Flood Advisory Issued for Northern Outer Banks
Coastal Flood Watch Issued for Northern Outer Banks
Tropical Storm Imelda Approaching North Carolina Coast
Hurricane Humberto Intensifies to Category 5 Threatening U.S. East Coast
Two Tropical Systems Threaten the East Coast
North Carolina Monitors Hurricane Gabrielle’s Impact
Additional Resources
- ABC News: Tropical Storm Forecast
- Wikipedia: Tropical Storm
- CBS News: Imelda Storm Path
- Google Search: Tropical Storm Imelda
- WYFF4: Imelda Spaghetti Models
- Google Scholar: Tropical Storm Imelda
- Greenville Online: Imelda Impacts
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tropical Storm Imelda
- Live 5 News: Imelda Forms
- Google News: Tropical Storm Imelda
Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare 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 Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
