Hurricane Gabrielle Approaches Azores, Prompts Urgent Preparations

Hurricane Gabrielle, a Category 3 storm with sustained winds of 115 mph (185 kph), is rapidly advancing toward the Azores archipelago, prompting hurricane warnings and urgent preparations across the region.

As of September 24, 2025, Gabrielle was approximately 1,360 miles (2,189 kilometers) west of the Azores, moving east-northeast at 25 mph (40 kph). The U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC) has issued a hurricane warning for the Azores, anticipating dangerous conditions, including significant coastal flooding, large destructive waves, and rainfall up to 5 inches (13 centimeters) across the central and western islands from Thursday night into Friday.

Gabrielle is the seventh named storm of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season. It rapidly intensified from a Category 1 hurricane on Sunday, September 21, to a Category 4 storm by Monday, September 22, with peak sustained winds of 140 mph (220 km/h) and a central pressure of 948 mbar. The storm's rapid intensification was fueled by warm Atlantic waters. After passing east of Bermuda on Monday night, Gabrielle shifted its trajectory toward the Azores.

The Azores, an autonomous region of Portugal located in the North Atlantic Ocean, are bracing for Gabrielle's impact. The NHC forecasts that the hurricane will approach the islands late Thursday, September 25, and move across the archipelago into early Friday, September 26. Residents are advised to prepare for hurricane-force winds, heavy rainfall, and dangerous storm surges. The Portuguese government has issued a hurricane warning for all of the Azores, emphasizing the need for immediate preparations.

After impacting the Azores, Gabrielle is expected to continue eastward, transitioning into a post-tropical storm. Meteorological models suggest that the remnants of Gabrielle could reach the Iberian Peninsula, particularly affecting Portugal and the western regions of Spain, by the weekend. The Spanish State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) indicates that while the storm will likely lose its hurricane status, it could still bring heavy rains, strong winds, and rough seas to the western parts of the peninsula. However, there remains some uncertainty regarding the exact trajectory and intensity of the storm as it approaches mainland Europe.

The Azores have experienced hurricanes in the past, but direct hits are relatively rare due to their location in the North Atlantic. The last significant hurricane to impact the Azores was Hurricane Ophelia in 2017, which passed south of the islands as a Category 3 storm. Gabrielle's approach as a Category 1 hurricane is notable and underscores the importance of preparedness in the region.

The Azores' economy relies heavily on tourism, agriculture, and fishing. A hurricane of Gabrielle's magnitude poses risks to infrastructure, homes, and the livelihoods of residents. The tourism sector, in particular, may face disruptions due to flight cancellations, damage to attractions, and the temporary closure of facilities. Local authorities are likely implementing emergency response plans, including activating shelters and reinforcing coastal defenses, to mitigate the storm's impact.

Residents and visitors in the Azores are advised to stay informed through official channels, secure property, and heed evacuation orders if issued. The NHC and European meteorological agencies are providing continuous updates to ensure public safety. Travelers with plans to visit the Azores should review booking policies, consult with airlines and ferry operators regarding potential disruptions, and consider travel insurance that covers natural disasters.

Hurricane Gabrielle's approach to the Azores is a significant meteorological event with potential implications for the region's safety, economy, and infrastructure. Continuous monitoring and preparedness are essential to mitigate the storm's impact. Residents and authorities are urged to stay vigilant and adhere to official guidance as the situation develops.