Cyclone Gabrielle Impacts Portugal's Azores Islands: Less Severe Than Expected But Causes Significant Damage

Waves crash against the shoreline near a coastal road during Cyclone Gabrielle's passage through the Azores archipelago in Portugal.

On Friday, Cyclone Gabrielle struck Portugal's mid-Atlantic Azores Islands with winds and rainfall that proved less severe than anticipated, though the storm still managed to uproot trees and damage several roofs, according to local authorities.

Portugal's meteorological agency IPMA had previously issued a red alert for the archipelago, warning of extreme weather conditions and significant risks.

Alonso Miguel, the Azores' regional environment secretary, confirmed that precautionary measures including school closures, suspension of public services, and restrictions on coastal activities would remain in effect for the time being.

"We are fortunate to report no injuries thus far. Most incidents have involved fallen trees, damage to infrastructure, and collapsed roofs," he stated during a press briefing.

Miguel indicated that weather conditions were expected to improve as the cyclone, which affected seven of the nine islands comprising the Azores, continued its eastward trajectory.

The Azores archipelago is situated approximately 1,500 kilometers (930 miles) west of mainland Portugal and has a population of nearly 250,000 residents.

According to Miguel, the highest wind gust measured at ground level reached 154 kilometers per hour (96 mph), significantly below the 200 kph (125 mph) that had been forecast.

He also noted that maximum sea swells remained considerably lower than the 18-meter (59-foot) heights predicted by the IPMA.