First Major Hurricane of E. Pac Season

Image: NHC

The National Hurricane Center is tracking the first major hurricane of the Eastern Pacific season. As of the 5 p.m. update, Hurricane Blas was about 2,235 miles southeast of Hilo.

The system is moving west near 13 mph with maximum winds around 140 mph with higher gusts. Tuesday the tropical cyclone could strengthen further if the forecast remains true. This would be followed by weakening late Wednesday and Thursday.

At this time, the main effects to the Hawaiian Islands from this system would be increased surf to eastern exposures. A decent size East swell (80-95°) could fill in this weekend and into next week. Chest-overhead surf is possible from this storm by Saturday.

Of course, this is highly dependent on the progress Blas makes over the next few days. We will keep an eye on the situation and bring you the latest.