Tropical Storm Laura and Hurricane Marco – Update #4 – 8/23/2020

University of Florida officials are continuing to monitor Tropical Storm Laura and Hurricane Marco. Here’s what we know today:

Based on Laura’s forecast, tropical storm conditions are expected across portions of the Dominican Republic, Haiti, the Turks and Caicos, the southeastern Bahamas, and Cuba through Monday. Moreover, tropical storm conditions are possible over the central Bahamas, and Andros Island tonight and tomorrow, and in the Florida Keys on Monday.

Despite the unique and unprecedented tropical activity forecasted in the Gulf of Mexico due to Tropical Storms Laura and Hurricane Marco, the outlook remains positive for Florida.

A tropical storm warning has been issued for the Florida Keys.  Chances of tropical storm-force winds in the Keys have decreased since yesterday but a 20% chance remains for Key West. Timing of any winds would most likely begin during the day on Monday. Laura is expected to make its closest approach to the Keys on Monday evening.

No tropical storm watches or warnings are currently in place for the Panhandle related to Hurricane Marco. A small chance of tropical storm-force winds in the extreme western Panhandle is noted by the National Weather Service on Monday.

UF units with operations in the Keys should follow guidance from local officials and be prepared for the possibility of tropical storm winds on Monday. UF units with operations in the western Panhandle should continue monitoring forecasts for Laura and Marco in case of storm watches or warnings are issued for either storm.

No tropical storm watches or warnings have been issued for Alachua County, and no operational changes are anticipated for the UF campus in Gainesville. We will continue to monitor and update the UF community as information becomes available.

For the latest forecast on Tropical Storms Laura and Hurricane Marco, please visit National Hurricane Center.