Two tropical storm systems near each other could wind up shielding the Carolinas from damage

NEW YORK (AP) — As a wet tropical system chugged north toward the Bahamas on Saturday, its threat to the Carolina coast might be determined by its unusual interaction — maybe even a rare dance — with another tropical system that could steer the mess out to sea.

A still unnamed and developing tropical depression — likely to become Imelda — is heading toward the Carolinas and is expected to eventually become a hurricane with the potential to bring damaging heavy rains, especially if it stalls and keeps pouring for awhile.

The storm could hit early next week, so Carolina residents need to be aware, especially of rain and flooding possibilities. But slight changes in its path and speed will determine how much big, bad Humberto might come to the rescue.

The stronger, further east and older s