Tropical Storm Elsa

7/7/2021 (Permalink)

Although Kanawha and Putnam counties may not be directly affected by Elsa, it is good to stay informed with potentially large storms such as this one.

Our corporate meteorologist, Lela Davis, reported on Tropical Storm Elsa and her effects on the East Coast. Although West Virginia will not be directly affected by the tropical storm, it is still smart to be in the know. 

Lela Davis says, "Tropical Storm Elsa has just crossed over the Florida Keys and will move northward today, heading towards the Tampa area. Landfall will be tomorrow morning just north of Tampa at CAT 1 Hurricane Strength. The ridge of high pressure located in the central/western Atlantic is steering Elsa and will continue to do so throughout the week. Some wind shear associated with a trough of low pressure in the western Gulf of Mexico is currently keeping Elsa from intensifying but that trough will shift west towards Mexico today/tomorrow which lowers the shear and allows Elsa to strengthen."

Rainfall is expected to total 3-5 inches, the highest storm surge should range from 3-5 feet and wind gusts are reported to be up to 80+ miles per hour. 

West Virginia should not see many effects from the tropical storm currently, but we will update if that changes. Stay cool and safe Kanawha and Putnam!