A Hurricane Warning means that hurricane conditions are imminent; in this case it is already occurring.
At 11 am, the center of Hurricane Elsa was located near latitude 13.4° north; longitude 61.2° west, over the extreme north of mainland St Vincent. Maximum sustained winds are near 75 mph (120 km/h) with higher gusts. Hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 25 miles (35 km) from the center and tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 140 miles (220 km). The estimated minimum central pressure is 995 mb (29.38 inches). Movement is toward the west-northwest near 29 mph (46 km/h).
Sustained surface winds between 75 to 95 mph (120 to 152 km/h) with higher gusts are expected to spread across St. Vincent and the Grenadines for the remainder of this morning; persisting into the evening with light rain and pockets of intense showers and thunderstorm activity. Rainfall accumulations of at least 3 to 6 inches (75 to 150 mm) are possible with isolated higher amounts by tonight. Further accumulations of 2 inches (50mm) are likely by Saturday night. This rainfall could cause life-threatening flash floods and mudslides.
Residents should take action to protect all life and property.
Large northerly to south-easterly swells peaking near 5.0 meters (16 feet) are also forecast to accompany the system. Low-lying coastlines around the islands will be particularly vulnerable at times of high tide. High tide is expected at 1:01 pm today Friday 2nd July. Large waves and dangerous rip-tides can be expected. These will create unsafe conditions for small-craft operators and fishermen. A High-Surf Advisory and Small-Craft Warning are in effect until 12 noon, Sunday 4th July 2021. Small craft operators are advised to remain in port. Sea-bathers and other users of the sea are advised to stay out of the water.
The next advisory will be at 2 pm, Friday, 2nd July 2021.
