While many Floridians across the state aren’t giving it much thought, Tropical Storm Elsa is actively nearing the western coast of Florida and looking to make serious waves as it makes landfall. It may seem like just any other storm, but category 1 hurricanes and tropical storms can actually leave serious damage in their path if taken lightly. With high wind speeds and heavy rainfalls, these slow moving hulking storms should actually be taken as seriously as higher category storms whenever they come near. As the first major storm of Hurricane Season 2021, here’s what you need to know about Tropical Storm Elsa.
Tropical Storm Elsa Details
Formed on Wednesday, June 30th, tropical storm Elsa began as a disturbance out in the middle of the Atlantic before curving towards the Caribbean. Elsa briefly became a category 1 hurricane as it passed by the western part of Cuba and dropped in speed, once again becoming a tropical storm.
While it was initially projected to cross through south Florida’s tri-county area and back into the Atlantic Ocean, Elsa has now pathed itself along the western coast of Florida and the Gulf of Mexico.
Elsa made initial landfall with a portion of the Florida Keys on Tuesday, July 7th, before continuing its path up Florida. With sustained winds of 70 miles per hour, Elsa is once again closing in on hurricane status, putting much of the coast on a watch/warning. Tropical Storm Elsa will likely travel along the west coast before turning through the middle of Florida on Wednesday, July 7th and make its way up the east coast of the United States.
While it may be on the west coast, much of the east coast, including Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties should still expect to experience heavy rains and winds as Elsa makes its way north from the outermost bands.
What To Do If Your Home Has Been Damaged By Tropical Storm Elsa
Tropical storms and hurricanes can leave several different types of home damage in their wake. Due to their heavy wind speeds, rainfalls, and flooding, even a tropical storm can spell disaster for your home.
Hurricane Wind Damage: Your roof is your home’s first line of defense to the elements, and usually requires serious force to get damaged. Unfortunately, hurricane-force winds bring that force. Tropical Storms like Elsa can have wind speeds up to 74 miles per hour, which is more than enough to tear off shingles and potentially damage your roof further. Heavy rainfalls that make their way into your home can lead to possible flooding and mold.
Hurricane Water Damage: As mentioned previously, rain and flooding caused by tropical storms can be devastating, and potentially deadly if not treated seriously. South Florida homes are prone to flooding due to it just barely being above sea level. Coastal homes tend to experience this the most, as heavy rains and storm surges make their way inside. Water damage from a tropical storm like Elsa can cause severe damage inside your home and allow for mold to make its way in.
Miscellaneous Hurricane Damage: Hurricanes and tropical storms alike can cause significant damage all around, such as uprooting trees and bushes, to overturning and flooding cars. Just like your home, businesses all around are susceptible to the same types of damages. It’s important to take the necessary precautions when a tropical storm like Elsa or hurricane are making their way towards you to protect you, your family, and your possessions.
Was your home or business affected by Tropical Storm Elsa? Contact the team at Barclay’s Public Adjusters. With decades of tropical storm and hurricane damage claims, our public adjusters have the knowledge and skill to get you the most on your insurance claim. We make sure we do everything in our power to help you during such a difficult time. Contact us today for a free consultation by calling us at (866) 724-4473.