Forecasters in Miami have reported a dynamic weather situation unfolding across the globe. In the Atlantic, Tropical Storm Humberto officially formed on Wednesday, while Hurricane Gabrielle continued its rapid advance toward the Azores islands. This volcanic archipelago has been placed under a hurricane warning, bracing for potentially hazardous conditions from Gabrielle as early as Thursday.
Although Gabrielle is predicted to weaken, it still poses a significant threat, with the potential for considerable coastal flooding and powerful, destructive waves across the islands. Residents of the central and western Azores could see up to 5 inches (13 centimeters) of rain between Thursday and Friday.
As of late Wednesday, Gabrielle was situated approximately 855 miles (1,375 kilometers) west of the Azores. The hurricane was sustaining winds of 85 mph (140 kph) and moving eastward at a brisk 31 mph (50 kph).
The far-reaching effects of Gabrielle’s powerful waves are expected to impact Bermuda, the U.S. East Coast from North Carolina all the way north, and the Atlantic coast of Canada. Authorities warn of life-threatening surf and dangerous rip currents in these areas.
Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Humberto was positioned about 505 miles (815 kilometers) east-northeast of the northern Leeward Islands, carrying maximum sustained winds of 45 mph (75 kph). Projections indicate that Humberto could bring winds of 39 mph to the eastern U.S. coast within the next five days.
Shifting focus to the Pacific, Hurricane Narda was observed moving away from Mexico late Wednesday. The storm registered top sustained winds of approximately 90 mph (150 kph).
Located about 580 miles (935 kilometers) south-southwest of Baja California’s southern tip, Narda was tracking westward at 10 mph (17 kph). Coastal watches and warnings were not issued as the hurricane is anticipated to remain offshore.
Despite its offshore trajectory, Narda’s swells are likely to generate rough surf and hazardous rip currents along certain sections of the Mexican coast. Forecasters expect the hurricane to briefly weaken before regaining strength on Thursday and Friday.