Hurricane Gabrielle Strengthens in Atlantic; Two Other Tropical Disturbances Monitored

Hurricane Gabrielle intensified on Sunday in the Atlantic Ocean, becoming a Category 1 storm as it tracked northward. The system, located southeast of Bermuda, is moving at roughly 10 miles per hour and is expected to gain additional strength over the coming days, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC).

Forecast models indicate Gabrielle could undergo rapid intensification, potentially reaching major hurricane status—Category 3 or higher on the Saffir-Simpson scale—by Monday or Tuesday. The storm’s projected path keeps it east of Bermuda, before curving north and northeast later in the week. While a direct landfall on Bermuda or the U.S. coastline is not currently expected, forecasters caution that conditions can shift quickly in the Atlantic basin.

Even without landfall, Gabrielle is already producing large swells, rip currents, and rough surf along parts of the western Atlantic. These effects are being felt in Bermuda and are expected to extend to the U.S. East Coast, from the Carolinas through New England. Coastal communities have been advised to monitor updates closely due to the risk of dangerous surf and strong currents.

Beyond Gabrielle, the NHC is tracking two additional tropical waves. One is moving west across the central Atlantic with a moderate to high chance of development within the next week. The second wave, farther east near the African coast, faces limiting environmental conditions such as dry air and strong upper-level winds, lowering its short-term potential for growth. Nonetheless, both systems are under continued observation given the active nature of the season.

September is traditionally the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season, and meteorologists note that warm sea surface temperatures and favorable atmospheric patterns are contributing to increased storm activity this year. Communities across the Atlantic basin are being reminded to maintain preparedness measures as conditions remain conducive for further tropical development.

Sources: National Hurricane Center (NOAA), Weather.com, Fox 13 News, News-Press, Yahoo News.