Tropical Storm Gabrielle Set to Strengthen as Bermuda Monitors Path

Tropical Storm Gabrielle is currently moving northwest at around 20 km/h, with maximum sustained winds of 95 km/h and gusts higher.

Forecasters say the storm is gradually strengthening and is expected to reach hurricane status by Sunday. Air Force Reserve and NOAA Hurricane Hunter aircraft are scheduled to investigate Gabrielle later today.

The storm’s centre, located near 25.0 North latitude and 59.0 West longitude, is forecast to pass east of Bermuda on Sunday night and Monday. Residents of Bermuda are being urged to monitor Gabrielle’s progress closely, although no coastal watches or warnings are currently in effect.

Gabrielle’s tropical-storm-force winds extend up to 220 km from its centre. Swells generated by the storm are already reaching Bermuda and will increase through the weekend. These swells are expected to reach the U.S. east coast from North Carolina northward, along with Atlantic Canada, later in the week, creating dangerous surf and strong rip currents. Authorities advise the public to follow updates from local weather offices.

The storm’s estimated central pressure is 1001 mb (29.56 inches), indicating gradual strengthening as it tracks north-northwest before turning north and northeast early next week.