Tropical Storm Gabrielle Could Become Hurricane by Weekend, Experts Warn

Tropical Storm Gabrielle is poised to intensify into a hurricane over the weekend, according to hurricane experts.

The storm, which formed on Wednesday (Sept. 17) in the Atlantic, is expected to pass north of the Caribbean islands over the weekend, reaching Bermuda by early next week.

According to AccuWeather hurricane experts, current conditions indicate that Tropical Storm Gabrielle could become a hurricane over the next few days.

“After navigating through hostile conditions in the Atlantic, Tropical Storm Gabrielle was able to develop, despite disruptive wind shear and dry air in the area. This storm may intensify into a hurricane over the weekend,” said Alex DaSilva, AccuWeather’s lead hurricane expert.

DaSilva added that Gabrielle originated from a tropical wave nearly 1,000 miles wide, which slowed its initial development.

Based on the current path projections, it is unlikely that the U.S. mainland will directly feel the storm’s impact; however, currents and rough surf are likely at beaches along the East Coast next week. 

“Gabrielle is forecast to pass north of the Caribbean islands as it curves to the north over the weekend. At this time, we expect this storm to steer clear of the U.S. East Coast. Rough surf and rip currents are likely next week along beaches from the Caribbean and Florida to the Northeast,” DaSilva said. “People in Bermuda should be on high alert and closely monitor forecast updates. This storm is currently forecast to track east of Bermuda early next week, bringing some rain and wind to the islands.”