Was a powerful Category 3 tropical cyclone from August 28 to September 4, 1985. The storm forced almost 1 million people to evacuate coastal areas between Tampa, Florida and New Orleans, Louisiana. The storm pounded the coast causing a storm surge of up to 15 feet. Winds were recorded up to 122 mph and torrential rains flooded Florida. Elena remained off the coast of Florida for 3 days then came ashore at Biloxi, Mississippi on September 2. The storm weakened over land but did not become extratropical until passing over Nova Scotia, Canada. Four deaths were reported as a result of Elena, three in related accidents and one heart attack. Elena is estimated to have caused about $1.25 billion in damage.
The name "Elena" was retired in 1986 and was replaced with "Erika" in 1991. |
Current Threats
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