Tropical storms Emily, Franklin form in busy Atlantic

Tropical storms Emily and Franklin have officially formed, according to the National Hurricane Center, but neither poses an immediate threat to Florida.

Emily is expected to stay out at sea and could weaken into a tropical depression early this week, forecasters said. Franklin is expected to travel north toward Haiti and the Dominican Republic.

They are two of five weather disturbances currently active in the Atlantic region, according to the Hurricane Center. Another could develop into a tropical depression as it moves west in the Gulf of Mexico over the next two days, forecasters said.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is predicting an above average hurricane season. Unusually hot ocean temperatures could contribute to a more active late summer and fall, with six to 11 hurricanes, including two to five reaching major hurricane strength, forecasters said.