Tropical Storm Gabrielle Forms in the Central Atlantic; New Tropical Wave Monitored Near Africa

The Atlantic hurricane season has reawakened after nearly three weeks of calm. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) confirmed that Tropical Depression Seven has strengthened into Tropical Storm Gabrielle, the seventh named storm of the 2025 season.

As of Friday, Gabrielle was located about 1,200 miles east of the Leeward Islands. Forecast models indicate the system will track northward, keeping it away from a direct path into the Caribbean. Still, forecasters warn of rough surf, rip currents, and scattered outer rainbands expected to affect parts of the Lesser Antilles over the weekend.

Meteorologists note that Gabrielle faces wind shear and dry air masses, both of which could limit its short-term intensification. However, should conditions improve, Gabrielle may reach hurricane strength in the coming days, which would make it only the second hurricane of the 2025 Atlantic season.

While it is too early to pinpoint long-term impacts, some models suggest the storm could approach Bermuda early next week. At this time, Gabrielle poses no threat to the U.S. mainland, as the most likely scenarios involve a northeastward turn or dissipation near the Bermuda Triangle.

Meanwhile, the NHC is also monitoring a tropical wave emerging off Africa in the eastern Atlantic. Current development chances are low over the next week, as the system encounters the same hostile conditions affecting Gabrielle.

Although the statistical peak of the season has passed, meteorologists emphasize that the most active period typically extends from mid-September through mid-October. Residents in hurricane-prone areas are urged to remain vigilant and prepared for potential storm activity.