Tropical Storm Gabrielle remained disorganized Friday morning as it churned across the central Atlantic, struggling to hold itself together under unfavorable weather conditions. Satellite imagery showed a swirl of low-level clouds but little of the strong thunderstorm activity needed for the storm to intensify.
Forecasters say Gabrielle is being battered by strong winds aloft and dry air wrapping into its circulation, both of which are keeping the system weak. Its top sustained winds are estimated at about 50 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center, though some satellite measurements suggest it may be a bit lower.
The storm is expected to remain under pressure for the next couple of days, with little chance of strengthening in the near term. In fact, forecasters warn Gabrielle could briefly lose its tropical characteristics and weaken into a non-tropical system. If it holds together, however, conditions are expected to improve early next week, giving the storm a chance to reorganize and regain strength as it turns toward the north and northeast.
After wobbling on its path earlier this week, Gabrielle has settled into a steady west-northwest track at about 15 mph. That motion is expected to continue through the weekend, guided by a ridge of high pressure in the Atlantic. By early next week, Gabrielle is forecast to curve northward, then accelerate northeast as it encounters a frontal system.
The longer-range forecast remains uncertain, and forecasters urge residents of Bermuda to keep a close watch on Gabrielle’s progress in the coming days.
