Tropical Depression #2 Forms off the Southeast Coast

[Pfishingruven]

5 days still until the official start of the 2016 Atlantic Tropical/Hurricane Season and we already have Tropical Depression #2 formed off the Southeast Coast. This system will likely become Tropical Storm Bonnie (TD #1 and TS Alex already formed back in January). This will be moderate tropical storm with winds forecast to 45 knots. This storm is forecast to affect the Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina Coasts before moving northeast. From here, the track is not so clear. The system could stay inland and eventually come to the area as rain or it could stay out along the coast as a tropical type system causing rain and coastal effects. This is definitely worth watching and I will update as needed!

[Salty Dog]

Thanks .

[Down Deep Fleet]

Thank you for keeping us in the know   

[Pfishingruven]

So, there is not much to update. Tropical Depression #2 became Tropical Storm Bonnie yesterday for less than 18 hours and has now made landfall on the South Carolina Coast. This is a basic storm with 40 knot winds and some heavy rains and thunderstorms.

The track takes this Tropical Depression back out in the Atlantic and northeast. Forecast says it will be off of the NJ Coast Thursday and Friday. Overall, this won't have too many affects to the area. Minor coastal flooding, higher winds and seas, and rough surf are possible. This is still several days away. Honestly, we have had far stronger, non tropical, coastal storms/Nor'Easters in the last year, but it is still worth watching.

Updates as needed.

[Pfishingruven]

Bonnie is very slow moving and has now become a Post Tropical Storm. This just means that the system is no longer relying on warm waters to generate its power. Bonnie is sitting over South Carolina moving ENE at 2 MPH with 30 MPH winds and a central pressure of 1012 MB. This is really a weak storm and mainly just bringing rain and thunderstorms. Once out over water it will bring gusty winds and higher seas as well. This really is not a major concern for us, as it will be well offshore when it approaches the area on Friday and Saturday. However, longer period swells will occur and water conditions will be effected to some degree. This storm should also be watched, just in case something changes, such as track or intensity.

Updates to follow...