Hurricane Gabrielle Strengthens Off the Coast of Bermuda

Bermuda, September 22, 2025

News Summary

Tropical Storm Gabrielle has intensified into a Category 1 hurricane with maximum winds of 75 mph as it moves northwest near Bermuda. Coastal regions of North Carolina are anticipating significant impacts, including large surf and rip currents. A beach hazards statement has been issued for the Outer Banks, warning beachgoers of potential dangers. Experts predict ongoing intensification, which could raise the storm to a major hurricane status soon. Residents in affected areas are urged to monitor the situation closely in preparation for worsening conditions.

Miami, FL – Tropical Storm Gabrielle has strengthened into a Category 1 hurricane as of September 21, 2025, with maximum sustained winds reaching 75 mph and gusts hitting up to 90 mph. The storm is currently located 320 miles southeast of Bermuda and is moving northwest at a speed of 12 mph.

Experts predict that Gabrielle will undergo steady to rapid intensification, potentially becoming a major hurricane early in the upcoming week. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has indicated that Gabrielle is expected to pass east of Bermuda on September 22, 2025. Coastal impacts are already anticipated along North Carolina, with large ocean swells forecasted to reach from North Carolina northward along the East Coast of the United States.

In response to the evolving storm conditions, the NHC has issued a beach hazards statement for the Outer Banks and other coastal areas of North Carolina. A moderate rip current risk has been declared and will remain in effect until Sunday night. Furthermore, hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 25 miles from the storm’s core, while tropical-storm force winds extend outward up to 175 miles, raising concerns about potential wind damage along coastal regions.

The surf swells generated by Gabrielle are projected to impact Bermuda and eventually reach Atlantic Canada. These waves pose a risk of life-threatening surf and rip current conditions along the affected coastlines, prompting authorities to advise caution for beachgoers.

At this time, no coastal watches or warnings are currently in effect for the region. However, interests in Bermuda and the U.S. East Coast are urged to keep a close watch on the storm’s progress as it may require further safety precautions and preparedness measures in the days ahead.

Current Storm Details

• Location: 320 miles southeast of Bermuda
• Maximum Sustained Winds: 75 mph
• Gusts: Up to 90 mph
• Movement: Northwest at 12 mph
• Wind Radius: Hurricane-force winds extend 25 miles; tropical-storm force winds extend 175 miles

Expected Impact Areas

• Primarily Affected Areas: North Carolina, Bermuda, Atlantic Canada
• Forecast for Coastal Conditions: Large ocean swells, life-threatening surf, and rip currents
• Beach Hazards Statement: Issued for Outer Banks and surrounding coastal areas
• Rip Current Risk: Moderate, in effect until Sunday night

Background Context

Tropical Storm Gabrielle originally formed prior to strengthening into a hurricane this week. As the storm develops further, weather experts continue to monitor its trajectory and potential impacts on coastal states and territories. Capable of rapid intensification, Gabrielle serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of hurricane season.

FAQ Section

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Storm Features Chart

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

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

• News Observer: Hurricane Update 1
• Wikipedia: Hurricane
• News Observer: Hurricane Update 2
• Google Search: Tropical Storm News
• News Observer: Hurricane Update 3
• Google Scholar: Hurricane Impact
• News Observer: Weather News
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Hurricanes
• News Observer: Hurricane Update 4

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.