Hurricane Gabrielle Strengthens Offshore, Swells Expected Along NC Coast
RALEIGH, N.C. — Tropical Storm Gabrielle officially strengthened into a Category 1 hurricane Sunday afternoon, and while the system remains offshore, forecasters say the North Carolina coast will feel its effects through dangerous surf and rip currents.
Gabrielle Becomes a Hurricane
The National Hurricane Center reported Sunday night that Gabrielle’s maximum sustained winds had increased to 75 mph with gusts up to 90 mph. The storm was located about 320 miles southeast of Bermuda, moving northwest at 12 mph.
Forecasters expect Gabrielle to undergo rapid intensification and potentially become a major hurricane early this week, with a forecast track passing east of Bermuda on Monday.
Coastal Impacts for North Carolina
Even though no coastal watches or warnings have been issued, Gabrielle is already creating large ocean swells that will reach the East Coast from North Carolina northward into Atlantic Canada.
By Sunday evening, a beach hazards statement was in effect for the Outer Banks and nearby coastal areas, with a moderate rip current risk in place. The National Hurricane Center said impacts will continue into early this week.
What Residents Should Know
- No direct landfall threat to North Carolina at this time.
- Rip currents and high surf remain the main hazards along beaches.
- Bermuda should monitor closely as Gabrielle passes nearby.
- Swells expected to expand northward, affecting much of the Eastern Seaboard.
Meteorologists emphasize that conditions can change quickly during hurricane season and advise residents to keep monitoring updates.
Do you think North Carolina’s coastal towns are adequately prepared for hurricane season impacts like dangerous surf and rip currents? Share your perspective with us at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
