NEW BEDFORD — New Bedford beaches and Fort Taber Park will be closed tomorrow due to the Tropical Storm Warning in effect for the region.

Mayor Jon Mitchell's office announced the closures Thursday afternoon ahead of Tropical Storm Elsa, which could bring wind gusts of up to 45 miles per hour to the SouthCoast on Friday.

Rain and strong winds are expected overnight and early Friday morning, lasting into the day.

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Residents are advised to contain lawn furniture or outdoor items and make sure pets are inside during the storm, the Mayor's office stated.

A flash flood watch is also in effect for the area from midnight tonight until 4 p.m. on Friday.

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