Balanced News: Lee becomes hurricane, forecast to be “extremely dangerous” storm

Tropical Storm Lee has strengthened into a Category 1 hurricane and is expected to become an “extremely dangerous major hurricane” by Saturday, according to the National Hurricane Center. While it is unclear where Lee will make landfall or the extent of its impact, the Leeward Islands should stay alert. Swells generated by the storm are likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip currents in the Lesser Antilles. Hurricane Lee is currently traveling west-northwest with maximum sustained winds of 75 mph, approximately 1,130 miles east of the northern Leewards. Hurricane Idalia, which hit Florida earlier this week, caused significant damage and economic losses estimated at $12 to $20 billion.