RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is monitoring two areas for potential tropical development over the next few days, including one 180 miles east of North Carolina’s coast.

Weather experts have predicted that 13 to 19 storms were forecasted for this year’s Hurricane season in the Atlantic. So far, we have seen Andrea, Barry and Chantal.

Of those, between six to ten could become hurricanes (winds of 74 miles per hour or higher), including three to five major hurricanes (Category 3, 4 or 5 with winds of 111 miles per hour or higher).

Western Atlantic

Just off the North Carolina coast, an area of showers and storms is being tracked for potential development.

The non-tropical area of low pressure, located along a frontal boundary, could become tropical as early as Sunday or Monday as it moves away from the North Carolina coast at 10 miles per hour.

As of Sunday morning, there was a 40% of tropical development within the next 2 days. 

According to the NHC, environmental conditions become less conducive for development after Monday. Regardless of development, direct impacts are not expected; however, dangerous rip currents and high seas are expected.

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The National Weather Service office in Wilmington put out a moderate risk of rip currents Sunday morning through Sunday night. There’s a high rip current risk in the Outer Banks.

Central Tropical Atlantic 

A tropical wave is forecast to move off the west coast of Africa in the next few days.

Tropical development will be possible mid-to-late in the week as it moves west-northwest across the Atlantic. The chance of development is low at 20% over the next 7 days.

While it doesn’t pose a direct threat to NC at this time, it’s worth watching. 

Tropical trends

Development will ramp up over the next few weeks. August, September, and October are the busiest months for the Atlantic Hurricane Season.

Peak season happens around September 10. 

This is a developing story. Check back with the CBS 17 Storm Team for updates!