MIAMI (AP) _ Tropical Storm Kate has formed and is approaching the central Bahamas.
The storm’s maximum sustained winds increased Monday morning are near 45 mph (75 kph) with additional strengthening expected.
A tropical storm warning is in effect for the central and northwestern Bahamas.
The storm is centered about 15 miles (25 kilometers) east-northeast of Cat Island in the Bahamas and is moving northwest near 15 mph (24 kph).
Forecasters say Kate will not affect Florida.
