Tropical Storm Elsa is close to making landfall as it moves northward at 14 mph. According to the latest forecast, the storm’s center is now just 55 miles west of Cedar Key.

Elsa is expected to make landfall along the Florida Gulf Coast today, Wednesday. The storm is expected to move across the southeastern United States and mid-Atlantic Thursday.

The National Hurricane Center said tornadoes could occur in some parts of Florida as Elsa –with sustained winds of up to 65 mph – sweeps through the region.

Authorities have issued hurricane warnings for the entire west coast of Florida from Chassahowitzka to the Steinhatchee River. A tropical storm warning has also been issued for North of Little River Inlet, South Carolina to Chincoteague, Virginia, Pamlico, and Albemarle Sounds.

Storm surges are expected over the west coast from the middle of Longboat Key to the Aucilla River and including Tampa Bay. Authorities have urged those living in coastal areas to seek higher ground.