ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Tropical Storm Helene has formed off the African Coast.

It is expected to strengthen in a couple days. It is likely to turn northerly in the Eastern Atlantic.

Florence is still being affected by shear. This shear will lessen in the next two days, which should allow for strengthening.

It may become a major hurricane again next week. Since it has been a weaker system lately, it is taking a more southerly track. That is why it is now expected to impact the Mid-Atlantic Coast.

It is moving slowly now, but it will pick up speed starting Monday. Swells may reach the East Coast as soon as Sunday. But the storm itself will not reach the coast until mid-week.

Other areas being monitored

Tropical Depression 9 is still being impacted by shear, but is expected to gradually strengthen as it moves westward.

It may be in the Caribbean in about a week.