Subtropical Storm Nicole has formed in the Atlantic. Nicole has a large wind field with winds near 45 mph and the wind field is projected to grow even larger. Winds will be at or near hurricane force as it approaches FL on Thursday. Significant coastal flooding will be the biggest threat due to the large size of the storm. A prolonged period of coastal flooding, tropical-storm-force winds, heavy rainfall, rough surf and rip currents, and beach erosion are likely along much of the SE United States coast, the Florida east coast, and portions of the Bahamas during much of the upcoming week. A Tropical Storm Watch is now in effect for the northwestern Bahamas, and additional watches could be required for portions of the Bahamas and the coast of Florida later today. Confidence in this forecast is high. Stay tuned for updates.