July 4, 2021, 9:40 a.m. – Despite a slight weakening of Tropical Storm Elsa over the last 24 hours, officials at Santa Fe College are continuing to track the path of the storm. As of the National Hurricane Center’s 8 a.m. report July 4, Tropical Storm Elsa has sustained winds of 65 mph and is tracking WNW at 13 mph. The National Hurricane Center is reporting that the next 24 hours may determine what kind of impact the SF service district of Alachua and Bradford counties will see. The earlier speed of the storm, coupled with any land impact with Cuba could result in additional weakening. Current projections indicate a 20-30% chance of tropical storm force winds in the area Tuesday into Wednesday and additional rainfall of 2-4 inches, including the potential for both wind damage and flash flooding.
Santa Fe College administrators and the college’s Emergency Management team are meeting regularly to provide students, faculty and staff any needed information about the storm’s impact to the college’s service district. Any news concerning the college and Tropical Storm Elsa will be posted on the SF Alerts page.
SF faculty and staff are encouraged to go to eStaff and verify that their emergency contact information is up to date. Students can also update their emergency contact information at eSantaFe. College officials will use the emergency contact information in the event that notifications concerning the storm need to be made directly.
The college community is also encouraged to make any preparations necessary, not just for this storm but throughout hurricane season. Use the ready.gov webpage for additional storm preparation information.