CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) — Tropical Storm Isaac is expected to pump up tropical moisture bringing rain to some areas of South Carolina and North Carolina where it is much needed.

The storm is moving farther west than first projected and South Carolina climatologist Hope Mizzell says the projected impact varies from between 1 to 4 inches of rain. That will help as the state moves toward the drier weather of fall.

Rain is in the forecast for the next several days. It’s needed in the central Savannah River Valley where five counties are still considered to be in a severe drought.

Mizzell said the rains over several days will be more beneficial than from a storm that makes landfall nearer South Carolina and passes through the state in a matter of hours.

• Bruce Smith, Associated Press