CARIBBEAN-Gabriel intensifies into a major hurricane.

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, CMC – Hurricane Gabrielle, Monday, intensified rapidly into a major hurricane and was located 195miles southeast of Bermuda.

The Miami-based National Hurricane Center (NHC) stated that the hurricane had maximum sustained winds of 120 miles per hour (mph) and that, although there are no coastal watches or warnings in effect, interests in Bermuda should monitor the progress of Gabrielle.

The Ministry of National Security, in a statement, said that the Emergency Measures Organisation (EMO) executive met to review the latest forecasts on the hurricane. Following the meeting, National Security Minister Michael Weeks confirmed that the storm is forecast to pass well to the east of Bermuda on Monday.

He said that there will be no closures of any kind on Monday, and “while this is good news, I urge residents to continue monitoring the official updates from the Bermuda Weather Service. Storms can change track and strength without warning, and it is always wise to remain alert”.

The NHC stated that the center of Hurricane Gabrielle was located near latitude 30.6°N, longitude 62.2°W.

“Gabrielle is moving toward the north at 10 mph. This general motion is expected today, followed by a faster northeastward or east-northeastward motion on Tue.”

The NHC stated that satellite images indicate an increase in maximum sustained winds, accompanied by higher gusts, and that Gabrielle is now a Category 3 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale.

“Gabrielle could intensify even more today, though some weakening should begin by Wednesday,” the NHC said, adding that surf swells generated by Gabrielle will continue to affect Bermuda during the next few days.

“These swells are now reaching the east coast of the United States from North Carolina northward, as well as Atlantic Canada, and are expected to continue through the early.

Part this week. These swells are likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions. Please consult products from your local weather office,” the NHC added.