Tropical Storm Elsa could deliver a blow

The National Weather Service is warning that Tropical Storm Elsa’s path could lead to wet weather, wind, and powerful surf early Friday.

Alan Dunham, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Norton, said there is a tropical storm warning in effect through Friday afternoon. 

“The Vineyard, Cape, and Nantucket will have more of a wind problem than heavy rain,” Dunham said. He added he wouldn’t be surprised to hear of power outages or tree damage on the Island.

As for the weekend, Dunham said things will begin to clear up. Saturday will be partially sunny with a 50 percent chance of rain and light winds, while Sunday will be partially sunny.

On Thursday, the Steamship Authority issued a warning to customers about the storm. “The Steamship Authority is monitoring the forecast for Tropical Storm Elsa, which is expected to bring high winds to Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket starting the morning of Friday, July 9, 2021.” the email blast states. “Customers who are planning to travel during that time should monitor the weather forecast, and our website, and plan accordingly.”

Wind storms can cause ferry cancellations or diversions from Oak Bluffs to Vineyard Haven.

Tisbury also issued a warning to mariners on Thursday. “Please ensure your vessel is prepared,” the notice states. It directed individuals to the harbormaster’s webpage for a checklist. Harbormaster John Crocker referred The Times to the checklist as well, which   suggests that boaters haul their vessels out if at all possible and move it to a safe location. Additionally, the checklist suggests checking the mooring tackle including the chafe gear on your pennant and using an additional storm pennant. “Boaters should also remove sails and biminis, make sure bilge pumps are operational, batteries are charged, and hatches are closed and secured,” the site states. 

Oak Bluffs harbormaster Todd Alexander said he was keeping a close eye on the storm, but last he checked he saw southwest winds up to 20 to 30 knots.

“Northeast is the big direction that wreaks havoc, southwest is generally fine,” he said, adding that he’s advising vessels to put extra lines on moorings and other common sense practices.

Chilmark Harbormaster Ryan Rossi said he sent out a notification to slip and mooring permit holders that storm will be here by Friday. Rossi sent the latest weather report from NOAA, suggesting to people that they secure vessels. He also said it doesn’t seem like it will be too damaging as long as vessels don’t get loose and damage someone else’s property.