An early start to the Season?

A strong low pressure system has formed off the East Coast of the United States (Figure 1). This system has developed central thunderstorm activity while remaining over the warmish waters of the Gulf Stream. Sea surface temperatures underneath the area of activity are below the usual threshold of 26C, however, upper level temperatures are cold enough that the storm could develop some tropical characteristics.

The forecast track moves it southwestward over the next few days. I'm showing the UKMET model here because it has been the most consistent and best forecast for this storm (Figure 2). To my eye, this looks like classical subtropical development.

http://www.thestormtrack.com/2007/05/an_early_start_to_the_season.php