Hurricane Gabrielle Surges to Category 4: Coastal Regions Brace for Rip Currents and High Surf
Hurricane Gabrielle has officially reached Category 4 status, intensifying rapidly over the Atlantic and prompting alerts for dangerous surf and rip currents along the U.S. East Coast and Bermuda. With sustained winds of 140 mph, Gabrielle is now one of the most powerful storms of the 2025 hurricane season.
Storm Position and Movement
As of Monday morning, Gabrielle was located 195 miles southeast of Bermuda, moving north-northeast at 12 mph. The storm is expected to pass east of Bermuda, avoiding direct landfall but still impacting the region with gusty winds and large swells.
Forecast models show Gabrielle curving back into the central Atlantic by midweek, with gradual weakening expected due to cooler waters and wind shear.
Hurricane Classification and Impact
Gabrielle’s wind speeds place it firmly in the Category 4 range, with hurricane-force winds extending 40 miles and tropical-storm-force winds reaching 140 miles from the center. It is the second major hurricane of the season, following Hurricane Erin in August.
NOAA’s seasonal outlook predicted a busier-than-average hurricane season, and Gabrielle’s development confirms those expectations.
Coastal Warnings and Safety Measures
Although Gabrielle won’t strike the U.S. directly, its influence is already being felt. The National Weather Service has issued rip current advisories for beaches in:
North Carolina
South Carolina
Florida’s East Coast
Beachgoers are advised to:
✅ Stay out of the water during high surf alerts
✅ Follow lifeguard instructions
✅ Monitor local weather updates
Additional Tropical Activity
Meteorologists are monitoring four tropical waves in the Atlantic, including systems near the Leeward Islands and Cabo Verde. While development is possible, none currently pose a threat to land.
Hurricane Gabrielle’s rapid intensification and wide-reaching surf impact highlight the importance of preparedness during peak hurricane season. Even without landfall, the storm’s effects are being felt from Bermuda to the Carolinas. Stay informed, stay safe, and follow official guidance as conditions evolve.
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