Good morning Island residents,

As we conclude the busy Independence Day holiday weekend everyone is asked to focus on and follow the progress of Tropical Storm Elsa.

At 8am this morning the National Hurricane Center Miami reported Tropical Storm Elsa’s position as 21.4N/80.7W (about 665 nautical miles south/southwest of Sullivan’s Island). Maximum sustained winds are 65 mph with barometric pressure at 29.71 inches.  The present northwest movement is 305 degrees and speed of 14 mph. The storm is nearing landfall in central Cuba. While the mountains of Cuba can adversely impact the strength of the storm, the warm water of the Florida Straights provides an opportunity for the storm to strengthen.  

Highlights of early forecasts from NHC/Miami to note:   

• Heavy rain will impact Cayman Islands and Cuba resulting in significant flooding.
• As Elsa approaches the Florida Keys, Florida peninsula and coastal Georgia Monday through Wednesday, heavy rainfall may result in isolated flash flooding.
• A tropical storm watch and storm surge watch are in effect for much of the west coast of Florida at this time.
• Ensemble tracking models seem to be in agreement indicating a slightly westward shift and away from the Atlantic Ocean at this time.
• Wind and rain could potentially arrive in South Carolina as early as Wednesday morning.
• Mid to late week rains across coastal South Carolina and North Carolina may result in isolated flash flooding.

Be sure to follow the local media outlets for the latest information on the storm and how it will impact the South Carolina coast.

Reverting with further details as available.

Regards,
Andy Benke
Town Administrator
abenke@sullivansisland.sc.gov