How Close Will Tropical Storm Gabrielle Come To Georgia?

Tropical Storm Gabrielle is spinning in the Atlantic, but Georgia can breathe a little easier tonight. Forecasters say the storm is expected to stay out to sea and steer clear of the U.S. coast.

What’s Happening: Gabrielle formed late this week and is moving northwest with winds near 60 miles per hour. The National Hurricane Center expects it to grow into a hurricane in the coming days. But instead of pushing toward the Southeast, the storm is likely to bend north and then northeast, keeping it away from Georgia and the rest of the U.S. mainland.

Why It Matters: While Gabrielle isn’t forecast to hit Georgia, storms like this can still leave an impact. Big systems spinning offshore can kick up stronger rip currents and rough surf, especially for beaches along the Carolinas and farther north. For Georgia, that risk looks low right now, but coastal residents should keep an eye on updates in case the track shifts.

Between the Lines: Forecast models have lined up, showing Gabrielle curving into the open Atlantic before it ever nears land. That’s good news for Georgia, which has dodged direct hits from storms so far this hurricane season. Still, weather experts warn that late September is peak hurricane season, and new systems could form at any time.

The Ripple Effect: Even a storm that never comes ashore can change things. Shipping lanes in the Atlantic may see delays. Beach trips up the East Coast could face dangerous swimming conditions. Hurricane season runs through November.