Hurricane Simon Strengthens to Category 4 Off Mexico’s Pacific Coast

Hurricane Simon has strengthened into a Category 4 storm off Mexico’s Pacific coast, with winds reaching up to 241 km/h (150 mph). The storm poses a threat of destructive winds, storm surges, and life-threatening flooding to southwestern Mexico. The US National Hurricane Center reported that Simon is expected to approach or move inland along Mexico’s west-central coast late on Saturday or early Sunday. At the time of the report, the storm was located approximately 115 miles (185 km) south-southwest of Manzanillo, with potential for further strengthening before landfall. The hurricane could bring between 10 to 20 inches (25 to 51 cm) of rain to parts of southwestern Mexico through Sunday. The agency warned that this rainfall could lead to life-threatening flooding and mudslides, particularly in areas with steep terrain, urging residents to complete preparations to protect lives and property. A hurricane warning has been issued for parts of the Pacific coast south of Puerto Vallarta, including the area around Manzanillo, which is Mexico’s largest Pacific port. A tropical storm watch is in effect farther south towards Lazaro Cardenas. In response to the storm, Jalisco authorities suspended classes on Friday and Monday in 22 coastal municipalities and began evacuating individuals from at-risk areas. Officials have also advised hotels and tourism businesses in Puerto Vallarta to ensure that workers and visitors have access to shelters or safe locations. As the storm approaches, businesses in Puerto Vallarta have boarded up windows and placed sandbags at entrances. The hurricane center has also issued warnings regarding a dangerous storm surge and large, destructive waves expected near the landfall area.