Although Hurricane Elsa has strengthened to 85 mph, there has been little change in the storm’s forecast. It is moving along quickly — about 30 mph — and is not expected to slow down until tomorrow, Saturday, July 3. Hurricane Elsa is currently west of the Windward Islands and south of Puerto Rico.
Keys officials say the storm’s strength, and approach, to the Florida Keys will be determined by its interaction with Hispaniola and Cuba. It’s too early to forecast whether the storm will be bringing tropical storm force winds, more than 39 mph, or hurricane force winds, more than 74 mph.
The beginning of Elsa’s winds are expected in the Florida Keys at midday on Monday, July 5. The worst weather will be overnight, and dissipating on the morning of Tuesday, July 6.
Officials are urging residents to begin taking steps for a tropical storm or hurricane to impact the Florida Keys.
“Residents need to keep a close eye on the weather and prepare accordingly,” Sheriff Ramsay said. “That means removing items from your yard that could be a wind hazard, ensuring you have water, food, cash, medication among other necessary items.”
While it remained too early today to predict Hurricane Elsa’s overall impact on the Keys, residents should expect to see tropical storm or hurricane force winds and rain possibly Monday into Tuesday. It is advised residents stay off the roads beginning midday Monday into Tuesday if possible.
