As of the 5 PM National Hurricane Center update, Tropical Storm Imelda maintains 40 mph maximum sustained winds with higher gusts. 

The Tropical Storm Watch for land zones along the east coast of Florida has been canceled, while a Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for marine zones south of the Altamaha River.

The storm is forecast to turn to the east late Monday through Tuesday thanks to a dip in the jet stream and influence from Hurricane Humberto well to the east. Despite the improving trend with the center of Imelda staying well east of the area, there will still be minor impacts to our area.

Beginning tonight into very early Monday morning, rounds of showers and embedded storms will move into our area thanks to moisture from Imelda pooling along a stalled frontal boundary in the region. This is expected to continue through Tuesday, with 1-2 inches of rainfall totals expected and locally higher amounts. Most areas of the Coastal Empire and Lowcountry are in a Low threat for flash flooding. Some areas may find localized flooding from heavy rain, mainly confined to areas that drain poorly. This will consist of ponding on the roadways and standing water in low spots.

Winds and coastal flooding will not be a major impact for the area. For spots along/east of I-95, winds could gust to 25-35 mph while inland areas may find gusts of 20-25 mph. Coastal flooding will be minor in nature with tides running a foot or two above normal due to onshore flow. Heavy rainfall may exacerbate this as the water will not be able to drain as well.

On the beaches and water, high wind and waves will lead to hazardous conditions. A high risk of rip currents is expected for much of the week, with surf breaking at four to five feet. Our marine zones will be under a Small Craft Advisory beginning at 10 AM Monday. Winds will be sustained 15 to 25 knots, with waves of four to six feet in nearshore waters.

Conditions on land will improve by Wednesday as dry, mild air works into the region. Rain chances will drop by midweek. However, breezy winds and elevated seas will still linger due to the difference in pressure between building high pressure to our north and Imelda pulling away to our east.