Hurricane Chris Forms, May Weaken to Cyclone

Tropical Storm Chris strengthened to a Category 1 Hurricane, making it the first hurricane of the 2012 season.

Forecasters at the National Hurricane Center are monitoring Chris' path, though the storm may weaken to a cyclone. Hurricane Chris is located in the northern Atlantic. Maximum sustained winds are 75 mph.

A low-pressure system unrelated to Chris is causing turbulent weather across south Florida, including Pinellas county. A hazardous weather outlook is in effect. Thunderstorms are expected this afternoon and overnight, much of it over coastal waters. The public is advised to be aware of cloud to ground lightning strikes. The stormy weather is expected to continue through the weekend.