Lowe's Cos forecast a slower-than-expected drop in annual comparable sales on Tuesday, banking on a boost to its current-quarter sales from hurricane-related demand, although big-ticket spending remained strained.

Lowe’s Cos. raised its sales forecast for the year, buoyed by higher spending on home improvement in the Pro category.

(Reuters) -Home improvement retailer Lowe's Cos forecast a slower-than-expected drop in annual comparable sales on Tuesday as a pickup in hurricane-related demand and favorable weather boosted quarterly sales, even as big-ticket spending remained strained.