Tropical Storm Elsa has moved past Cuba and is now expected to strengthen from its current maximum winds of 60 mph as it moves into the warm waters of the Straits of Florida, where the storm could regain hurricane strength before making landfall on the Sunshine State.
A tropical storm warning has been issued for portions of Central Florida with some rain bands already making their way in Osceola County.
At 8 a.m. on Tuesday, the center of Tropical Storm Elsa was located 55 miles west of Key West, according to NHC forecasters. Elsa was moving north-northwest near 12 mph, much reduced from its peak of 31 mph a few days ago. Elsa s expected to pass near the Florida Keys Tuesday morning where 48 mph winds are currently being reported.
After Elsa passes the Florida Keys, forecasters expect the storm to move near or over portions of Florida’s west coast on Tuesday and Wednesday. Central Florida is forecast to be on the dirty side — the most dangerous quadrant of the storm.
Tornados are possible for Orange, Seminole, and Osceola Counties today and on Wednesday. Look for strong rain winds with gusting winds to increase today and getting more frequent and stronger early Wednesday morning.
