The storm maintained poleward outflow as it continued west-northwestward.
The depression tracked northwestward and strengthened minimally, with winds never exceeding 35 mph (55 km/h).
As the depression headed gradually west-northwestward over extremely warm sea surface temperatures, it steadily intensified.
While tracking west-northwestward, satellite imagery indicated a developing low-level circulation.
Moving northwestward, it slowly organized at first due to its large size.
Subsequently, the storm began tracking west-northwestward at a faster pace.
However, it continued northwestward and avoided landfall in the state.
Hernan curved north-northwestward the following day, before eventually turning north-northeastward.
