Cristobal weakens to tropical depression, expected to dissipate today

Tropical Storm Cristobal has weakened into a tropical depression and is expected to dissipate later Thursday, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center.

As of 9 a.m. GMT Thursday, Cristobal was located about 980 kilometres west of the Azores, near 38.6 N and 38.2 W.

The system was moving northeast at about 26 km/h, with maximum sustained winds near 55 km/h and higher gusts.

Forecasters said additional weakening is expected, with Cristobal forecast to dissipate later Thursday.

There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect, and the National Hurricane Center reported no hazards affecting land.