Certainly not rapidly intensifying. What appears at first glance to be an eye feature is a bit of dry air intrusion that has been wrapped up into the circulation. This is evident in water vapor and IR imagery. Overall, cloud tops have warmed significantly since this morning, and Franklin has a more ragged appearance. As of yet, the recon aircraft has found no data to support the current 50 kt initial intensity -- and I expect that is a bit too generous.

(Also note that the recon fix has been to the south of what is mistaken for an eye. Conclusive evidence that this is indeed not an eye, since it is not co-located with the center of circulation.)

Take care,
-C.