At 5 p.m. EDT Friday, Tropical Storm Erika was forecast to slam into south Florida this weekend/NOAA

A tropical storm bearing down on Florida was prompting the closure of Everglades, Dry Tortugas, and Biscayne national parks until at least noon on Tuesday.

Although the exact track and intensity of Tropical Storm Erika remained uncertain Friday, it was forecast to move across south Florida beginning Saturday, bringing tropical storm force winds, heavy rain, and possible flooding. Everglades and Dry Tortugas national parks were planning to close at 6 p.m. Saturday.

For information on these temporary park closures, you can call 305-242-7017.

Biscayne National Park officials, meanwhile closed all park islands, including Boca Chita Key, Elliott Key and Adams Key, and the mainland area at Convoy Point (9 miles east of Homestead), at 5:30 p.m. Friday. Park waters remained open for vessel transit only. 

After Biscayne suffered severe damage in 1992 from Hurricane Andrew, officials implemented a detailed plan for adequately protecting life, property and employees. The plan currently calls for preparations to begin at least 72 hours before potential landfall. These preparations include shuttering buildings and securing park property.