HAWAII ISLAND – A High Surf Warning remains in effect for east facing shores of Hawaii Island until 6 a.m. Sunday, as Hurricane Lester moves off to the northwest, north of the Big Island.

At 8 a.m., the National Weather Service reported that Hurricane Lester was centered 165 miles north-northeast of Hilo, moving west-northwest at 16 mph. Lester is still a Category Two Hurricane with maximum sustained winds at 100 mph with higher gusts. However, it is far enough away from the islands to allow the Hurricane Watch to be lifted across the state.

Rain could still be on the way. The National Weather Service reported that “deep tropical moisture around Hurricane Lester will result in increasing showers with the possibility of localized heavier downpours or thunderstorms today through Sunday,” civil defense relayed.

There were no surf related closures in Hilo at 9 a.m., however civil defense reported surf heights “in excess of 20 feet along east-facing shores have been reported.”

The worst must be over, because the evacuation shelters at Pahoa Community Center and at the Keaukaha’s Kawananakoa Gym are now closed. They were opened last night in anticipation of high surf-related damage.

The 10 a.m. message will be the last update from Hawaii County Civil Defense for Hurricane Lester.