By 1200 UTC on September 2, the storm strengthened into a Category 2 hurricane while centered about halfway between the Leeward Islands and Cape Verde. Early on the following day, Gabrielle became a major hurricane when it reached Category 3 intensity. Later on September 3, a ridge of high pressure formed a wedge between Gabrielle and Hurricane Felix.
By 1200 UTC on September 2, the storm intensified into a Category 2 hurricane while centered midway between the Leeward Islands and Cape Verde. The following day, Gabrielle escalated to major hurricane status when it reached Category 3 intensity. On September 3, a high-pressure ridge formed a barrier between Gabrielle and Hurricane Felix.