Tropical Storm Cristobal became the first named storm to form in the open Atlantic Ocean this year but does not appear to be a threat to Bermuda, the National Hurricane Centre reported.

But forecasters are keeping an eye on a tropical wave located between the Lesser Antilles and Africa that as an 80 per cent chance of becoming a tropical depression.

The Bermuda Weather Service said Cristobal was “well east” of Bermuda and heading away.

As of 2.45pm today, the storm was moving east at 25mph and carrying maximum winds of 45mph.

The BWS said the tropical wave could become a tropical depression within two days.

A Facebook post from the BWS said: “Between an expected southerly track, strong wind shear and lots of dry air, [the tropical wave] does not look likely to be a threat to Bermuda, but we’ll keep an eye on it for sure.

“Regardless it's a good time to remind everyone that as we head into the latter half of August, the tropics will become more active, so give those hurricane preparedness kits a check.”