Residents and travelers in the Azores, Portugal, are being advised to prepare for Hurricane Gabrielle as the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC) has issued a Hurricane Warning for all Azorean Islands. The warning indicates that hurricane conditions are expected within the area and urges immediate completion of preparations to protect life and property.
According to the NHC, Hurricane Gabrielle is forecasted to approach the Azores late on Thursday, September 25, with sustained winds reaching up to 85 mph. The situation may change rapidly regarding wind strength, rainfall amounts, and wave impacts.
Hurricane conditions are expected in the affected areas on Thursday night and Friday. Tropical storm conditions are likely by Thursday evening. A dangerous storm surge could lead to significant coastal flooding where onshore winds occur, accompanied by large and destructive waves.
Rainfall predictions suggest that from Thursday into Friday morning, central and western parts of the Azores may receive between 3 to 5 inches (75 to 125 mm) of rain. Eastern areas, including Ponta Delgada, could see between 1 to 2 inches (25 to 50 mm).
The U.S. Consulate in Ponta Delgada recommends avoiding low-lying areas and beaches during this period. Residents should monitor local media for updates and follow forecasts from both the U.S. National Hurricane Center and Portuguese IPMA agencies for any changes.
Travelers are encouraged to confirm their flight status with airlines due to possible delays or cancellations caused by severe weather conditions. Individuals should also prepare an emergency kit using guidance from Ready.gov at https://www.ready.gov/kit and make evacuation plans if necessary.
For assistance or emergencies involving U.S. citizens in Portugal, contact details for both the U.S. Consulate Ponta Delgada and U.S. Embassy Lisbon have been provided through official channels at https://pt.usembassy.gov/u-s-consulate-ponta-delgada and https://pt.usembassy.gov/.
U.S. citizens visiting or residing in Portugal can enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for security updates from consular officials.
"Preparations to protect life and property should be rushed to completion."
You can find more information about travel safety kits at Ready.gov: https://www.ready.gov/kit.