Several tropical systems have developed over the past few weeks.  By the middle of September we typically see about 6 named storms.  So far this year we've seen 11.  Forecasters earlier in the year suggested the season would be active and they were right.  In fact, the consensus forecast was for 17 to 20 storms, of which about half would become hurricanes.  We are certainly on the track to get that many before the season begins to diminish in October and November.  Eastern North Carolina has been fortunate thus far, with Earl giving us the closest brush.  Earl  came within 100 miles of the coast before veering out and away from our area.  Two hurricanes and a tropical storm are still roaming the Atlantic on Wednesday night.  None of them should have much if any impact on our area.  However, we still have several weeks to go before season is over.