Ernesto Strengthening

Ernesto's sustained winds are up to 60mph as of the 11am advisory. The system is organizing, and I think it has a pretty good chance of achieving hurricane intensity by landfall.

A strengthening system is more damaging upon landfall than a weakening one, and I fear this might possibly catch some coastal residents a bit off-guard. While we are not dealing with a major hurricane here, I think in the areas very close to where the center makes landfall will take a pretty good shot. The primary area for landfall looks to be from about Georgrtown, SC to Wilmington, NC this evening.

For our viewing area, rainfall rates will increase again this afternoon and evening, and a flash flood watch remains in effect from I-77 eastward. Look for lots of rain this afternoon and tonight. Winds should not be a huge problem around here, but we could see some gusts over 30mph at times tonight. The biggest wind and power outage problems should remain just east of the viewing area.

Keep it tuned to News 14 Carolina all day and night. We will be here tracking Ernesto with you live.