MIAMI (AP) — A hurricane warning has been issued for the Azores as Hurricane Gabrielle churned across open Atlantic waters on track for the volcanic archipelago. The Category 3 storm is forecast to weaken but still approach the Azores late Thursday, with dangerous conditions likely Thursday night and Friday, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center.
The warnings highlight anticipated life-threatening surf and rip currents affecting Bermuda, the U.S. East Coast from North Carolina northward, and the Atlantic coast of Canada. Gabrielle's waves could lead to significant coastal flooding and destructive waves, with projections of up to 5 inches (13 cm) of rain across the central and western Azores.
Meanwhile, Hurricane Narda has strengthened into a Category 2 storm, moving west away from Mexico with sustained winds of about 105 mph (169 kph). No coastal watches or warnings are currently in effect for Narda as it continues to move further offshore. The storm is centered about 540 miles (869 kilometers) south of Mexico’s Baja California peninsula.
Residents of the Azores are advised to stay alert and prepare for potential evacuations if necessary, as the region braces for extreme weather conditions in the coming days.
