New Delhi, July 6 -- Tropical Storm Chantal crashed into South Carolina early Sunday, hitting near Litchfield Beach around 4 a.m. with strong winds of 50 mph. The storm is now moving north, soaking both South and North Carolina with heavy rains that could flood streets and neighborhoods.

Weather experts warn people to stay alert as bands of rain sweep across the coast and push inland. Flooding is a big worry, especially in low-lying areas near the shore.

Officials have issued tropical storm warnings from South Santee River, South Carolina, all the way up to Surf City, North Carolina.

This means strong winds, heavy rain, and dangerous beach conditions are expected in these areas.

Chantal is dumping huge amounts of rain, up to 4 inches ...