A Tropical Storm Warning means that tropical storm conditions are imminent within the warning area; in this case within the next 12 hours.
At 11 pm, the center of Tropical Storm Elsa was located near latitude 11.8° north; longitude 55.9° west, or approximately 370 miles (600 kilometers) east southeast of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Maximum sustained winds have increased to near 50 mph (85 km/h) with higher gusts, with tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 140 miles (220 km), mainly to the north of the center. The estimated minimum central pressure is 1003 mb (29.62 inches).
The general movement is toward the west-northwest near 26 mph (43 km/h) and on its present forecast track, the center of the system is expected to pass near or over St. Vincent and the Grenadines around late Friday morning.
Sustained surface winds between 35 to 55 mph (56 to 89 km/h) with higher gusts are expected to spread across St. Vincent and the Grenadines by early Friday morning; persisting into the evening.
In addition, pockets of moderate to heavy showers and thunderstorms are predicted to move across the islands during Friday. Rainfall accumulations of at least 3 to 6 inches (75 to 150 mm) are possible with isolated higher amounts. This rainfall could cause life-threatening flash floods and mudslides. Residents in areas prone to flash-flooding and landslides or near rivers and streams should be prepared.
Large easterly 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. 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.
All preparations for the arrival of Tropical Storm Elsa should be completed, and residents should continue to keep updated on the progress of this system. The next Advisory will be at 5 am, Friday, 2nd July, 2021.
