11:00 pm 01st July, 2021
A TROPICAL STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FOR SAINT LUCIA
Saint Lucia is expected to begin experiencing tropical storm conditions within the next 12 hours.
At 11:00 pm today the center of Tropical Storm Elsa was located near latitude 11.8 degrees north, longitude 55.9 degrees west or about 375 miles or 604 kilometers east-southeast of Saint Lucia.
Maximum sustained winds have increased to near 50 mph or 85 km/h, with higher gusts. Some strengthening is forecast during the next 48 hours. Tropical-storm-force winds now extend outward up to 140 miles or 220 kilometers mainly to the north of the center.
Tropical Storm Elsa is moving towards the west northwest near 26 mph or 43 km/h. An increase in forward speed is expected over the next 24 to 36 hours. On the forecast track, the system will pass near Saint Lucia or over the Windward Islands on Friday and move into the Caribbean Sea late Friday.
Elsa is expected to produce rainfall totals of 3 to 6 inches or 76 to 152 mm with maximum totals of 10 inches or 254 mm across the Windward Islands on Friday. This increases the potential for landslides and/or flash flooding. Residents and motorists in areas prone to flooding and landslides are advised to take necessary precautions.
Tropical Storm warnings remain in effect for Martinique, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Barbados. Tropical storm watches are in effect for Grenada and its dependencies.
Swells generated by Elsa will be affecting the Windward Islands tomorrow. Small craft around Saint Lucia are strongly advised to remain in port. Residents are also advised to stay away from the beaches.
The Saint Lucia Meteorological Services will continue to closely monitor the progress of this system and the next advisory will be issued at 2:00 am.
Vigil Saltibus
Meteorologist I
Saint Lucia Meteorological Services