ELSA NEARING STRENGTH: Winds have increased to 70mph
ELSA NEARING STRENGTH: Winds have increased to 70mph

Tropical Storm Elsa is picking up strength with 70 mph winds but expected to strengthen to a category 1 hurricane later this afternoon or evening.

It is moving north at 9 mph towards Southwest Gulf Coast.

Strong winds, heavy rain bands and isolated tornado's will continue to be a threat through tonight.

The next cone update will be at 5 PM.