A tropical storm which forecasters say could soon develop into a hurricane has delayed the start of the U.S. Republican national convention in Tampa, Florida.

The Republicans this week are to formally nominate Mitt Romney and his vice presidential running mate Paul Ryan as their candidates to face Democratic President Barack Obama and Joe Biden in the November election.

Republican officials say that while the convention will briefly convene on Monday it will immediately recess until Tuesday afternoon. They say safety concerns about the storm prompted their decision.

Romney, who is at his vacation home in New Hampshire, will deliver his acceptance speech on Thursday.

During an interview with Fox News Sunday, Romney said he hopes his acceptance speech conveys his belief that the nation is “unique and exceptional” and continues to have the tools needed “to lead the world in prosperity and in peace.”

The Republican hopeful also distanced himself from recent comments by Republican representative Todd Akin who angered many voters last week by suggesting that women's bodies can prevent pregnancy in cases of what he called “legitimate rape.”

Romney said that while governor of Massachusetts he helped women by implementing universal health care law in the state, an accomplishment he was proud of.

Romney has vowed to repeal Mr. Obama's health care overhaul if elected.