Florida Braces For Storm Surge As Elsa Approaches

CNN reports:

Potentially life-threatening storm surge, heavy rains and damaging winds — including possible isolated tornadoes — are expected to impact southern Florida on Tuesday as Tropical Storm Elsa takes aim at the peninsula. The storm has prompted tropical storm warnings and coastal flood advisories along parts of Florida’s west coast.

Search and rescue teams working at the site of the deadly building collapse in Surfside, Florida, are keeping an eye on the storm after its approach prompted the demolition of the remaining portion of the Champlain Towers South condo building.

Others in southern Florida are preparing by filling sand bags, opening shelters, closing businesses and schools, and activating local emergency operations centers.

The Weather Channel reports:



A hurricane watch is now in effect for a part of Florida’s immediate western Gulf coast. Elsa’s is centered about 55 miles west of Key West, Florida, and is tracking north-northwest at just over 10 mph.

Bands of heavy rain and gusty winds continue to spread into South Florida. These rain bands could also produce isolated tornadoes at times. Wind gusts over 50 mph have been clocked in Key West as of Tuesday morning.