John Ghiorse: Tropical Storm Elsa Update

John Ghiorse: Tropical Storm Elsa Update

So far, as tropical systems go, Storm "Elsa" has not been very big or very intense as it moved out of the Caribbean into the Gulf of Mexico and across Northern Florida into the Southeastern states. But, typical of tropical cyclones, it has been very wet. 

This evening the center of the still rather small but compact storm is located over North Carolina. Heavy rain and winds gusting over 50 mph are being reported at some spots. It looks like the center of Elsa will track up the coast and pass near or over Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts by sometime later tomorrow. There are showers associated with a frontal boundary in our area now that will be enhanced by the tropical moisture from Elsa.so local flooding is a distinct possibility. 

Winds are likely to gust near or over 50mph, especially near the coast and coastal waters. Boaters should take precautions to secure their boats and moorings. Elsa should move by quickly, so I look for improving conditions tomorrow night and Saturday, although there could be some lingering, leftover showers.
 

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