3rd named storm, Chris spins up in the north Atlantic; no threat to land (Photos)

Update: Chris upgraded to first Atlantic hurricane of season; Gulf storm becoming likely

An area of low pressure that was being monitored over the last few days for tropical development in the northern Atlantic has formed into the third named storm of the season.

Tropical Storm Chris spun up 560 miles south southwest of Cape Race, Newfoundland, Canada with 45 mph winds, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC). It was moving to the east at 8 mph.

NHC says the thunderstorm activity associated with the low pressure area acquired enough organization and coverage to be classified as a tropical storm Tuesday afternoon.

Chris poises no threat to any land masses and is forecast to weaken as it encounters colder waters over the next 24 to 36 hours on a continued east and northeastward track over the northern Atlantic by Wednesday night or Thursday.

Visible satellite image of newly formed Tropical Storm Chris in the northern Atlantic Tuesday afternoon.

Photo credit: 

(NOAA)

This is only the third time that a tropical cyclone has formed so early in the hurricane season behind 1887 (June 11) and 1959 (June 18).

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration expects a total of nine to 15 named storms to form during the season.