"Hurricane Franklin Strengthens, East Coast Braces for Dangerous Surf"

Tropical storm Franklin has intensified into a Category 1 hurricane and is expected to bring dangerous surf conditions to the East Coast early next week. However, it is not projected to make landfall. The storm is forecasted to become a major Category 3 hurricane by Monday before turning eastward and dissipating in the middle of the Atlantic. Waves off North Carolina could reach heights of 9 to 12 feet by Wednesday, and winds may reach 125 mph by Monday and Tuesday. Dangerous rip currents are also anticipated along the East Coast, with potential impact on the Atlantic coast of Canada.