Lisbon: Cyclone Gabrielle made landfall on Portugal's Azores Islands on Friday, September 26, 2025, bringing lower-than-expected damage. Authorities had feared a severe storm with wind gusts reaching up to 200 km/h, but the maximum recorded gust was 154 km/h. Similarly, the anticipated massive sea swells of 18 meters did not materialize.

The storm caused some damage, including toppled trees and collapsed roofs, but no injuries were reported. Seven of the nine islands in the archipelago were affected, home to nearly 250,000 people. The Azores had been placed under a red alert, prompting the cancellation of tourist and recreational activities, the closure of schools and public services, and advisories for residents to stay indoors for at least 24 hours.

As Gabrielle moved eastward, it weakened and lost its tropical characteristics, transitioning into a post-tropical cyclone. Officials reported that wind and rain were expected to ease as the storm continued its path.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation and assess the full extent of the damage, but early reports indicate that the archipelago avoided the worst-case scenario predicted earlier in the week.