Authorities in Charlotte and Sarasota counties and the city of Punta Gorda  declared local states of emergency M in anticipation of Tropical Storm Elsa.

As of today Tuesday, July 6th, County offices and summer camps in Charlotte and Sarasota counties are closed.  Courts in Charlotte County, are closed. The city of Punta Gorda  is open.

Updates will be issued as the storm increases and issue updates or open shelters as needed.

Elsa is expected to stay a tropical storm as it moves into the Gulf of Mexico and off the coast of Southwest Florida. It is expected to bring several inches of rain, strong winds and sporadic tornados. 
For updated local information on the storm you can go to the following links