Hurricane Gabrielle became a major hurricane this morning as it reached Category 3 status, the Bermuda Weather Service said.

In its midday update, the BWS said that the storm’s closest point of approach within the next 72 hours, had passed.

Gabrielle is reported to be 178 miles to the east-southeast of Bermuda and was moving north at 10 miles per hour.

It said the storm was expected to strengthen to a Category 4 by 9pm this evening before weakening to a Category 3 into Tuesday.

Given its distance, Bermuda may experience rough seas and hazardous swells as a result of the hurricane.

The swells will mainly be along the eastern and southern shores of the island and may generate rip currents.

The storm was packing maximum sustained winds of 121mph.

The BWS said in its forecast discussion: “Hurricane Gabrielle continues its northerly nearby approach into the area, though passing well east of Bermuda through much of today with the only effects the island may see [being] rough seas and southeasterly swells.

“Gabrielle sent a fast-moving rain band over Bermuda early this morning that brought vicinity showers.

“Gabrielle, now a major hurricane, will continue to send hazardous swells to our shores with likely rip currents as it passes to our distant east later today.

“Sometimes breezy winds and the odd shower can be expected before conditions improve tonight as Gabrielle accelerates away to the northeast.

“High pressure ensues thereafter, maintaining largely fine weather.”

A small craft warning is in effect until tomorrow morning.