Kirk strengthens and becomes a Category 3 hurricane in the Atlantic

Hurricane Kirk strengthened since Wednesday afternoon, becoming a Category 3 storm in the Atlantic Ocean and could grow further, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC). So far, there are no coastal alerts or warnings in force, as it is not yet considered a threat to hit land.

NHC reported that Kirk is located about 1,150 miles east-northeast of the Lesser Antilles, with maximum sustained winds of 120 mph. It was moving northwest at 12 mph.

Kirk could turn north-northwest

Experts believe that perhaps during this week, Kirk could gradually turn north-northwest and then north, AP reported.

Swells generated by the storm could affect parts of the Leeward Islands and Bermuda over the weekend, likely causing waves and rip currents, the center said.

Meteorological authorities maintain constant monitoring of its trajectory and evolution, AP specified.

Kirk began to grow, while many people in the southeastern United States were devastated by Hurricane Helene. Thousands do not have running water, cell phone service and electricity.

Hurricane season until November

Rescuers are still searching for missing people after Helene hit last week as a Category 4 storm, leaving more than 160 people dead, authorities said.

The United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has warned that this year the season will extend until November 30 and some hurricanes could reach major categories.

With information from AP

Keep reading:

• Race continues to find Helene survivors, while at least 162 dead are estimated
• In North Carolina, Hurricane Helene left 35 people dead and thousands injured
• Hurricane Kirk strengthens in the central Atlantic and could reach major category