Hurricane Larry continues to gradually strengthen over the tropical Atlantic Ocean, and is now a high-end Category 3 major hurricane. This makes Larry the third major hurricane of the 2021 Atlantic hurricane season. The average number of major hurricanes in the Atlantic through September 4 is one, so the Atlantic basin is well above average in major hurricanes so far.

As of 5:00 p.m. EDT Saturday, Hurricane Larry was centered near 17.4°N 47.1°W, and was moving west-northwestward at approximately 14 mph. Maximum sustained winds were 110 knots (125 mph), with an estimated minimum pressure of 958 mb. Larry underwent an eyewall replacement cycle (EWRC) last night and developed a larger eye, though the eye remains somewhat ragged on satellite imagery. Assuming no more cycles disrupt the intensification process, Larry should become a Category 4 hurricane tonight or on Sunday while the hurricane moves into warmer sea surface temperatures. The vertical shear could increase early next week, which will likely weaken Larry some, but it remains unclear how much shear will increase. A reconnaissance aircraft is currently scheduled to investigate Larry on Tuesday morning, which will provide a more precise estimate of Larry’s intensity. Although Larry is expected to remain well offshore the United States east coast, the hurricane could produce rough surf and higher than normal waves next week. By next Thursday, the center of Larry could pass close to Bermuda, and interests in the island should closely monitor the hurricane. Larry should then turn to the northeast by Friday, and will likely become a post-tropical cyclone by next Saturday, if not sooner.