Tropical Storm Lee is reaching hurricane strength and is expected to rapidly evolve into an “Extremely Dangerous” hurricane
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Tropical Storm Lee is nearing hurricane strength and is expected to quickly evolve into an “Extremely Dangerous” hurricane by this weekend, according to the National Hurricane Center.
Tropical Storm Lee formed Tuesday night. It lies about 1265 miles east-southeast of the North Leeward Islands. The storm is moving at about 16 miles per hour and has maximum sustained wind speeds of 65 miles per hour.
Lee is expected to become a hurricane sometime Wednesday. The NHC said the storm is likely to be a major hurricane by the weekend.
“The current forecast places the system just north of the Caribbean islands, but when the storm turns north will determine whether impacts will be felt anywhere in the US,” said Max Defender 8 meteorologist Leigh Spann .
The NHC said waves from Lee are expected to reach parts of the Lesser Antilles on Friday. The waves are likely to create life-threatening surf and current conditions.
