North Carolina, September 22, 2025
News Summary
Hurricane Gabrielle has intensified into a Category 1 hurricane, impacting the East Coast, especially North Carolina and the Outer Banks. With maximum sustained winds of 75 mph, the storm is moving northwest and expected to potentially reach major hurricane status. Hazardous surf conditions and rip currents are projected, urging beachgoers to exercise caution. Residents are advised to stay informed about Gabrielle’s trajectory and its effects on coastal areas.
New York City – Tropical Storm Gabrielle has strengthened into a Category 1 hurricane as of September 21, 2025, marking it as the seventh named storm of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season. Currently positioned approximately 265 to 535 miles southeast of Bermuda, Gabrielle is moving northwest at a speed of 9 to 12 mph with maximum sustained winds recorded at 75 mph and gusts reaching 90 mph.
Meteorologists indicate that the storm may rapidly intensify, with forecasts suggesting that Gabrielle could become a major hurricane in the coming days. The storm is expected to pass east of Bermuda on September 22, 2025. While primarily over open waters, Gabrielle will affect the U.S. East Coast, particularly the region of North Carolina and the Outer Banks.
As Gabrielle progresses, hazardous surf conditions and life-threatening rip currents are anticipated along the East Coast, extending into parts of Atlantic Canada. Beachgoers are urged to exercise caution due to dangerous conditions caused by large ocean swells generated by the storm. A beach hazards statement has been issued for coastal areas of North Carolina, indicating a moderate rip current risk.
At this time, no coastal watches or warnings are in effect for the U.S.; however, residents are encouraged to stay informed regarding Gabrielle’s trajectory. Hurricane-force winds extend up to 25 miles from the storm’s center, while tropical-storm-force winds can be felt up to 175 miles away. The storm’s track is projected to shift northward on Monday and then northeast on Tuesday, primarily maintaining its path over open waters.
This development follows an unusually quiet first half of the 2025 hurricane season, which officially runs from June 1 to November 30. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) had predicted this hurricane season could produce between 13 to 19 named storms, including 5 to 9 hurricanes, suggesting that more activity may follow Gabrielle.
The rapid intensification of Gabrielle has been attributed to favorable environmental factors, including warm ocean waters. At present, Gabrielle appears to be the most powerful system in the Atlantic, particularly following a period of declining hurricane activity noted earlier in the season. In addition to Gabrielle, meteorologists are monitoring two additional tropical waves for potential development into future tropical storms or depressions.
Tracking and Impact
The current situation highlights the importance of preparedness for communities along the East Coast. Residents in North Carolina and nearby areas are encouraged to stay vigilant and monitor updates from local authorities regarding Gabrielle’s path and potential impacts.
Key Features of Hurricane Gabrielle
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Gabrielle |
| Category | 1 |
| Max Winds | 75 mph |
| Gusts | 90 mph |
| Location | 265 to 535 miles southeast of Bermuda |
| Movement Speed | 9 to 12 mph northwest |
| Expected Path | East of Bermuda |
| Coastal Warning Status | No current watches or warnings in the U.S. |
| Rip Current Risk | Moderate in North Carolina |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of Tropical Storm Gabrielle?
Tropical Storm Gabrielle has strengthened into a Category 1 hurricane, with maximum sustained winds of 75 mph.
Where is Gabrielle currently located?
Gabrielle is currently located about 265 to 535 miles southeast of Bermuda.
How fast is Gabrielle moving?
Gabrielle is moving northwest at approximately 9 to 12 mph.
What areas are expected to be impacted by Gabrielle?
Gabrielle will primarily affect the U.S. East Coast, particularly North Carolina and the Outer Banks.
What safety measures are in place?
A beach hazards statement has been issued for North Carolina, indicating a moderate rip current risk.
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Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Hurricane Gabrielle Strengthens, Impacts Coastline
Hurricane Gabrielle Strengthens Off the Coast of Bermuda
Coastal Hazards Advisory for North Carolina Amid Rising Rip Current Risks
Rip Current Warning Issued for North Carolina’s Outer Banks
Tropical Disturbance May Develop into Depression This Week
Newport, North Carolina Faces Life-Threatening Rip Currents
Hurricane Erin Triggers Life-Threatening Coastal Conditions in North Carolina
North Carolina Launches Hurricane Preparedness Campaign
Additional Resources
- CBS 17
- USA Today
- ABC 11
- CNN
- News & Observer
- Wikipedia: Tropical cyclone
- Google Search: Tropical Storm Gabrielle
- Google Scholar: Tropical Storm Gabrielle
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tropical Storm Gabrielle
- Google News: Tropical Storm Gabrielle
Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
