Andrea Delivering Strong Winds in Lowcountry

UPDATE (5 A.M.): The soaking rain expected in the Lowcountry today did not materialize overnight, and now Tropical Storm Andrea's strongest local impact will be wind, according to local forecasters.

There will be pockets of rain today, totaling up to 1 inch, but widespread flooding and the potential for tornadoes has been greatly diminished. That's thanks to a turn in the storm that shifted the most punishing aspects of the storm well to the west and north of the Charleston area. 

The biggest concern today: Wind gusts up to 50 mph, with sustained speeds of 20 mph to 35 mph, according to local forecasts. Charleston County will not close local bridges today, but motorists should take caution while crossing those spans.

The original story appears as follows:

The first named storm of the 2013 Atlantic Hurricane Season spent Thursday evening through Friday morning soaking the Charleston area before it will move up the East Coast.

The storm will begin to head out to sea Saturday. 

A flash flood watch was issued through Friday morning. A tropical storm warning is in effect overnight. Winds are expected between 25 and 35 mph, with gusts up to 45 mph.