Imelda strengthens to hurricane. Here are the weather impacts Hilton Head can expect
Imelda, now a Category 1 hurricane with sustained winds of 75 mph, continues to move northeast at 7 mph.
Even though the storm will remain offshore from the Southeast U.S. coast, residents and visitors should still prepare for significant indirect impacts throughout the week.
Its influence – combined with that of Category 2 Hurricane Humberto – the Lowcountry will continue to feel its effects for several more days. Here’s what to expect:
Marine and beach hazards
Hazardous marine conditions will persist along the Southeast coast, including the Lowcountry. High Surf Advisories and Small Craft Advisories remain in effect for the remainder of the week, warning of:
- Swells and large breaking waves of 4 to 6 feet
- High risk of rip currents
- Gusty winds and rough seas
The National Weather Service Charleston office states these dangers will particularly affect Georgia beaches, Beaufort and Coastal Jasper County, with the rip current risk remaining high through this evening. The NWS states that these conditions are unsafe for all levels of swimmers and that individuals should stay out of the water.
Additionally, a Coastal Flood Advisory is in effect from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday for Colleton and Charleston Counties.
Wind and weather outlook
The Lowcountry remains under the influence of gusty north-northeast winds due to a tight pressure gradient coming from the west and the offshore tropical systems.
Winds will remain strongest along the coast, limiting daytime highs in the upper 70s and contributing to cloudy and light rain conditions through Tuesday. NWS Charleston forecasters say less than a tenth of an inch of rain is expected.
By Tuesday evening, drier air will begin pushing into the region, leading to decreasing cloud cover and lower rain chances. Overnight lows will range from the low 60s inland to the mid-60s at the coast.
Later this week brings a fall-like change
By mid-to-late-week, as Imelda moves farther away, a strong Canadian high-pressure system will bring in drier and cooler air with:
- Breezy north-northeast winds
- A decrease in cloud coverage
- Lower dew points (upper 50s to low 60s)
- Pleasant fall-like temperatures in the mid to upper 70s
While weekend conditions still hold some uncertainty, the NWS Charleston office says rain chances are expected to return Friday afternoon as a weak coastal system evolves over the Deep South and Gulf of Mexico, bringing back moisture. This setup may lead to isolated to scattered showers through the weekend, especially east of Interstate 95.
This story was originally published September 30, 2025 at 10:11 AM.
