Tropical Storm Watch for Charleston Area as Beryl Forms

A tropical storm watch has been issued for the Charleston area as subtropical storm Beryl moves slowly toward the coast.

A tropical storm warning is in effect for areas from Florida up to Edisto Beach, meaning that tropical storm conditions are expected in that area in the next 36 hours. Landfall is currently predicted near the Florida/Georgia border.

The watch is in effect for the South Carolina coast from Edisto Beach to the South Santee River. Tropical storm conditions are possible within the watch area within the next 48 hours.

Beryl is moving west-southwest near 5 mph, with sustained winds near 45 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center. The storm is expected to turn west Sunday night, with the center approaching the coast Sunday.

"The combination of a storm surge and the tide will cause normally dry areas near the coast to be flooded by rising waters," according to the NHC. The water could reach up to three feet near the landfall location if the peak surge arrives at high tide.

Large, dangerous waves are expected along the coast, as well as rainfall up to 4 inches. The National Weather Service encourages local boaters with small crafts to return to port to secure their craft.

The Weather Channel is also monitoring the storm.