By Robert Dalling
Copyright walesonline
The Foreign Office has issued a tropical storm warning for the Azores. Hurricane Gabrielle is set to hit during the afternoon of Thursday, September 25, bringing with it hurricane force winds and coastal flooding. The Azores sit some 850 miles off the coast of Portugal. Hurricane Gabrielle is a powerful and active tropical cyclone that is currently threatening the region. It is the second major hurricane of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season. It formed from a long-tracked tropical wave in the central Atlantic on September 17. The Foreign Office warning reads: “Hurricane Gabrielle is expected to reach the Azores during the afternoon of September 25. For the biggest stories in Wales first, sign up to our daily newsletter here “There may be disruption to services due to hurricane force winds and possible coastal flooding. “Hurricanes can change course and intensity. “Monitor the approaching storm on the US National Hurricane Center website and follow the advice of the local authorities. “If you are due to travel, check for messages from your travel provider.” The Regional Civil Protection and Fire Service of the Azores states on its website: “The approach and passage of tropical cyclone Gabrielle will cause significant weather deterioration across the Archipelago, especially on the islands of the western and central groups.” And it further offered the following safety tips to those affected: “Check the validity of your home and vehicle insurance and make sure they are covered for natural phenomena. “Consolidate roofs, doors and windows. “Cut down or prune nearby trees that pose a risk of falling. In the case of large trees or trees that are not your property, inform your local authority. “Keep your drainage systems and those adjacent to your home clean. If you become aware of a situation that could cause damage, alert the appropriate authorities. “Store away loose objects from the garden, trash cans, and other objects that could be thrown by the wind. Even a light object thrown by a strong wind can cause significant material damage and serious personal injury. “Close doors, windows and blinds tightly. “Keep your vehicle with a full fuel tank, as you may have to travel longer distances on interrupted or impassable roads. “Shelter animals, particularly domestic ones, as they are extremely sensitive to storms. “Inside the house, choose a safe place, away from doors and windows, trying not to increase the risk “If you notice leaks, strange noises, or cracks in the walls, contact the authorities. You may have to leave your home. “If you need to leave your home, turn off the electricity, gas, and water. This measure helps prevent accidents to your property and security forces. Bring your emergency kit; you may need it. “If you are outside, seek shelter and wait for the bad weather to pass. “Do not move around unnecessarily. This can hinder the movement of security forces and put your safety at risk, such as falling into holes hidden by water tables. “In unpaved areas, pay extra attention, as water can cause soil erosion, leading to the collapse of walls, slopes, posts, among others. “Turn on the radio, pay attention to the recommendations made and do not contribute to the spread of rumours. “Always follow the recommendations of the authorities present, they are there to help you.” Get daily breaking news updates on your phone by joining our WhatsApp community here . We occasionally treat members to special offers, promotions and ads from us and our partners. See our Privacy Notice.
