Moving over warmer sea temperatures (SSTs), Hurricane Lester has experienced a sharp shift near the center. The intensity is expected to raise to 95kt from its most recent estimate of 97kt.

As Lester moves westward, an upper level channel is expected to shift Lester’s path over the next three days towards the northwest.

The Big Island and Maui County remain under close watch given their vulnerability toward Lester’s path­­ and with the possibility of a direct affect should Lester shift leftward­­­­­­­. Hurricane conditions including strong wind, high shorelines, and heavy rain may occur over the weekend. Maui, Molokai, Lanai, and Kahoolawe are also under watch.

Gradual weakening is expected with the recent trends as Lester will be moving over cooler SSTs later today.

To stay updated with weather alerts: http://khon2.com/2016/08/29/lester/