Keep an eye on Katia...

[Porsche-O-Phile]

This storm out in the Atlantic is an interesting study in tropical cyclone meteorology. While it has an awful lot of convection and power (and has now for several days) and is over relatively warm water, upper level atmospheric flow is shearing the storm and preventing it from intensifying explosively. Additionally there is a mixture of humid/wet air and dry air working into the main central circulation which is additionally inhibiting strengthening (tropical cyclones benefit from humid/wet and unstable air).

However, the track of this storm is somewhat similar to Irene, only displaced north. The forecast track suggests a collision with the mid-Atlantic in a week or so and by that time it is likely to have intensified due to upper level shear weakening and warm sea temperatures.

It's far too early to sound any sort of alarm and it could still turn/fall apart/whatever, but I've got a feeling this one might end up being a problem for places like Delaware, New Jersey, etc. in another week. Keep an eye on it guys...