Tropical Storm Elsa – Update #5 – 7/5/2021

University of Florida officials are actively monitoring Tropical Storm Elsa. Here’s what we know today:

Heavy rain will impact the Cayman Islands and Cuba today resulting in significant flooding and mudslides over Cuba. Tropical storm conditions and dangerous storm surge are expected to continue across portions of central and western Cuba today.

As Tropical Storm Elsa approaches the Florida Keys and the Florida Peninsula Monday through Wednesday, heavy rainfall may result in isolated flash, urban and minor river flooding.

The current forecast indicates tropical storm conditions are expected in portions of the Florida Keys and along Florida’s west coast, where a tropical storm warning is in effect, tonight through tomorrow night. A tropical storm watch and storm surge watch are in effect for portions of the west coast of Florida and the Florida Big Bend.

A few tornadoes are possible across South Florida tonight, with the threat moving northward across the Peninsula on Tuesday and Wednesday. A surge warning could be issued later today along Tampa Bay.

All UF units in Florida should closely monitor forecasts and be prepared to implement their plans. Those within the watches and warnings areas should be implementing plans and be ready to follow guidance from local officials.

No tropical storm warnings or watches are currently in place for Alachua County, but counties immediately to the south, including Marion, have watches issued. The UF campus in Gainesville remains on normal operations for Tuesday and will continue to evaluate conditions for Wednesday. We will continue to update the UF community on expected impacts or schedule changes as information becomes available.

For additional information, please visit National Hurricane Center