Tropical storm Sean strengthens, nears Bermuda

MIAMI (AP) -- Tropical Storm Sean continues to strengthen as it moves to the northeast toward Bermuda.

The U.S. National Hurricane Center in Miami said Thursday afternoon that Sean's maximum sustained winds are 65 mph (100 kph). It is located about 285 miles (459 kilometers) west-southwest of Bermuda and is moving northeast at 13 mph (21 kph). The storm's center should pass to the northwest of Bermuda Friday morning.

A tropical storm warning is in effect for Bermuda, where storm conditions are expected to begin Thursday night. Sean is expected to produce 1 to 3 inches of rainfall there. Swells generated by Sean are affecting the southeastern U.S. coast and Bermuda, with life-threatening surf and rip currents.

The Atlantic hurricane season lasts from June to the end of November.

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