Irene is shedding outer convection on the NW, W, SW, and S sections of the storm. Outer convection is decreasing on the N, NE, E, and SE sections of the storm.

Inner core is intensifying and eye is becoming much clearer. Near bands to the core are wrapping tightly to the core and a trouh appears to be forming fully encircling the central storm where there still is outer convection.

It is beginning to take on an annular appearance to me. Anyone else see it? It's not there yet, but in another 1-2 hours it could be.

http://www.ssd.noaa.gov/goes/flt/t2/flash-rb.html

Note the change over time:

1945Z:

2215Z:

0015Z:

0115Z: