The storm is still on target to hit Northeast Florida with Tropical Storm Force winds. Now all of Northeast Florida is under a Tropical Storm Warning. That means Duval, St. Johns, Nassau, Clay, Putnam and Baker counties.
Emergency Management Officials are expecting tropical storm-force winds along coastal counties by this afternoon, saying it will be a significant rainmaker and could create flooding. Because of the risk of the storm, outdoor events for the Jacksonville Jazz Festival have been cancelled - with the exception of the Jazz Brunch at the Omni Hotel. Crews will be working overnight to break down tents and stage structures to prepare for the storm.
As of right now, crews in Jacksonville have been clearing debris and preparing the city for the high winds.
Duval EOC Chief Marty Senterfitt says Jacksonville Beaches will also be closed to swimmers and boaters, but open to anyone who wants to walk along the shores. Lifeguards made several rescues on Saturday because of the aggressive surf. The Florida Division of Emergency Management cautions beachgoers as a high risk of rip currents is expected along the northeast Florida coast from Nassau through Flagler counties.
"In addition to the potential for dangerous rip currents, high waves up to four to six feet could cause moderate beach erosion and minor coastal flooding," said State Meteorologist Amy Godsey. "Beachgoers should remember to review the rip current outlook for their area, check the warning flag signs before entering the water and swim within sight of a lifeguard."
The Emergency Management Offices in Duval, St. Johns and Nassau counties are monitoring the storm. The Memorial Day ceremony at the Veterans Memorial Wall has been cancelled.
Public Works and JEA have called in key personnel and are continuing to work to clear debris including tree limbs, construction materials and storm drains throughout the city.
The city of Jacksonville has opened a Special Needs Shelter at the Legends Center located at Soutel and Moncrief in Northwest Jacksonville. Individuals that are electricity and oxygen dependent should use this shelter in the event of a power outage or flooding.
City of Jacksonville Community and Senior Centers have cancelled all reservations for today.
Listen to Mayor Alvin Brown talk about city-wide preparations for Beryl with WOKV's Rich Jones.
Maximum sustained are currently 70 miles an hour with higher gusts.
You can follow the weather by hour by clicking this link.
See the latest weather alerts for the Northeast Florida counties.
See the latest advisory for TS Beryl from the Hurricane Center.
Here is more from the National Hurricane Center: