Columbia, S.C. – A tropical wave rolling across the central Atlantic Ocean could become the seventh named storm of the 2025 season by midweek, raising concerns for the Southeast as hurricane activity peaks.
According to the National Hurricane Center in Miami, the system carries a 60% chance of development over the next seven days as it moves westward toward the Caribbean. If it strengthens into a tropical storm, it will be named Gabrielle.
The National Weather Service office in Columbia reports that six named storms have already formed this year, including Hurricane Erin, which briefly reached Category 5 strength before staying offshore. August alone produced three storms—Dexter, Erin, and Fernand—marking an active stretch as the season intensifies.
While it remains too early to determine if the current disturbance will reach the U.S. coastline, forecasters urge residents from Florida to the Carolinas to monitor updates closely. Emergency managers recommend reviewing hurricane kits, keeping gas tanks filled, and knowing evacuation routes in case watches or warnings are issued.
The Atlantic hurricane season runs through November, with activity typically peaking in early to mid-September. Additional advisories are expected as forecasters track Gabrielle’s potential development.
