GREENVILLE, N.C. (WITN) – Lee is now a category 1 storm in the Atlantic and is expected to become a major hurricane by the weekend. As of the 5 p.m. advisory, Lee has sustained winds of 75 mph and gusts up to 90 mph. Lee is moving northwest at 14 mph.

5 PM Advisory on Hurricane Lee from the National Hurricane Center. (WITN)

Lee is forecasted to strengthen up to a major hurricane over the coming days as it tracks toward the west-northwest. The slow down we’ve seen over the past 24 hours will help Lee strengthen and create better storm structure. A ridge of high pressure in the Atlantic along with the jet stream over North America will determine the long range track of Lee. The most recent model data keeps Lee out in the Atlantic, tracking closer to Bermuda similar to how Franklin passed by ENC. However, a lot can change with a system this far out, so stay tuned to the forecast.

The probability of tropical development over two and seven days of a disturbance off the coast of Africa.

A second area is also being closely monitored for possible development over the next several days. The center of the weak low is now clear of the African coastline and will reach an area of warm water as it moves deeper into the Atlantic. This will lead to a medium chance (60%) of tropical development over the next seven days.

Stay with WITN and WITN.COM as we continue to track the remaining name storms this hurricane season.