Photo: CIRA/NOAA
Hurricane Gabrielle has rapidly intensified into a major hurricane over the Central Subtropical Atlantic. According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), Gabrielle's sustained winds have reached 120 mph, classifying it as a Category 3 hurricane. The hurricane's winds increased by 55 mph in just 24 hours, far surpassing the rapid intensification benchmark of a 35 mph increase over the same period.
The storm is currently located about 195 miles southeast of Bermuda and is moving north-northwest at 10 mph.
Forecasters expect Gabrielle to continue on this path, passing east of Bermuda on Monday night (September 22). Although there are no coastal watches or warnings in effect, residents of Bermuda are advised to monitor the storm's progress. Gabrielle is anticipated to bring hazardous surf and rip currents to Bermuda's beaches, as well as along parts of North Carolina and the Eastern Coast of the United States.
The NHC is also monitoring two other disturbances in the Atlantic for potential development. One system, located in the Central Tropical Atlantic, has a 70% chance of developing into a tropical depression by the end of the week. Another system, located east of the Lesser Antilles, has a 40% chance of development over the same period. These systems could bring gusty winds and showers to the Leeward Islands.
Although Gabrielle is not expected to make landfall, beachgoers along the US East Coast are advised to exercise caution due to the potential for life-threatening surf and rip current conditions.