Carolinas Brace for Potential Hurricane Imelda as Tropical Disturbance Approaches

According to the National Weather Service, a tropical disturbance near Cuba is expected to strengthen into Hurricane Imelda and potentially impact the Carolinas early next week. As of September 29th, 2025, the system is still uncertain in its track, but forecasters warn that if it continues drifting toward the Carolinas, it could affect the Charlotte area from Monday to Tuesday.

The National Hurricane Center has stated that the system is expected to reach near-hurricane intensity when it approaches the U.S. Southeast coast, posing a risk of storm surge and wind impacts. Heavy rainfall is also a major threat, with coastal Georgia and the Carolinas facing the possibility of flash, urban, and river flooding.

In preparation for the potential storm, the Concord International Festival has been rescheduled from its original weekend to Saturday, October 11th, from noon to 6 p.m. Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Humberto is no longer forecast to impact the Charlotte area, as it is expected to veer well to the east and northeast of the Carolinas.

Forecasters are urging residents to prepare for the possibility of a hurricane, regardless of whether Imelda directly hits the region. They recommend securing windows, doors, and loose items, knowing where to shelter, and having an emergency kit ready with essential supplies.