Tropical Storm Elsa – Update #6 – 7/6/2021
University of Florida officials are continuing to monitor Tropical Storm Elsa. Here’s what we know today:
As Elsa moves near or along the western Florida Peninsula through Wednesday, heavy rainfall may result in isolated flash, urban and minor river flooding, with considerable flash and urban flooding possible in the southwest and western portions of Florida.
There is a danger of life-threatening storm surge along portions of the west coast of Florida tonight and Wednesday, and a storm surge warning is in effect for that area. Hurricane conditions are possible tonight and early Wednesday along a portion of the west coast of Florida, where a hurricane watch is in effect.
Tropical storm conditions are occurring across portions of the Florida Keys and are expected to spread northward through Wednesday morning along much of the west coast of the state, where a tropical storm warning is in effect. Some slight strengthening is possible through tonight, and the National Hurricane Center forecasts a strong tropical storm making landfall along the Big Bend region Wednesday morning.
All UF units in Florida should closely monitor forecasts. Those within the watches and warnings areas should be finalizing preparations today and follow guidance from local officials.
Alachua County is currently under a tropical storm warning. In-person and online classes at the University of Florida campus in Gainesville will be canceled and offices will be closed Wednesday, July 7. Classes will resume and campus will reopen Thursday, July 8.
The current forecast indicates Gainesville will receive tropical storm winds. The most likely window of concern for wind and heavy rain is tomorrow from early morning through the afternoon. The risk for potential impacts increases west of I-75.
We will continue to update the UF community on expected impacts or schedule changes as information becomes available.
For the latest on the status of operations, students, faculty and staff are urged to check UF’s homepage at www.ufl.edu, UF Alerts, the news media and the university social media pages. For more information, please visit National Hurricane Center.
