MIAMI (AP) — A hurricane warning has been issued for the Azores as Hurricane Gabrielle churned across open Atlantic waters, on track for the volcanic archipelago. Forecasters indicate the Category 3 storm is expected to weaken but still pose significant threats as it approaches the Azores late Thursday.

With dangerous conditions anticipated on Thursday night and Friday, areas may experience life-threatening surf and rip currents. The U.S. National Hurricane Center warns that while Gabrielle is 1,360 miles west of the Azores, waves generated by the storm will affect nearby regions, including Bermuda and parts of the U.S. East Coast.

From Thursday into Friday, Gabrielle could deliver up to 5 inches (13 centimeters) of rain across the central and western Azores, prompting further concerns over potential coastal flooding and destructive waves.

In the Pacific, Hurricane Narda has also strengthened, becoming a Category 2 storm as it continues moving away from Mexico. Currently positioned 540 miles south of Baja California, Narda's forecast calls for it to maintain its offshore trajectory with diminishing impact on coastal areas.