Hurricane Simon Approaches Mexico’s Pacific Coast as Category 4

Hurricane Simon has intensified into a strong Category 4 storm. It is heading toward Mexico’s Pacific coastline. The National Hurricane Center in Miami reported that Simon’s maximum sustained winds have reached 155 mph. Simon is expected to approach Mexico’s west-central coast on Sunday as a major hurricane, classified as Category 3 or stronger. This means winds of at least 111 mph. On Saturday night, Simon was close to a Category 5 classification, which requires winds of 157 mph.

Forecasters indicate that Simon might weaken quickly if its core moves fully onshore after landfall. The storm could cause significant rainfall, with 10 to 20 inches expected in parts of southwestern Mexico. Some areas, including Michoacan, Colima, and Jalisco, could see up to 30 inches of rain. This level of precipitation could lead to life-threatening flooding and mudslides, especially in steep areas.

“This rainfall will produce life-threatening flooding and mudslides,” the center warned.
The center also urged immediate preparation as tropical storm conditions began Saturday afternoon.

Simon was located approximately 65 miles south-southwest of Manzanillo, Mexico, on Saturday. It moved slowly northward at 5 mph. The hurricane center advised that preparations to protect life and property should be finished promptly in the hurricane warning area before conditions worsen. Jalisco state responded by suspending classes on Monday in 22 coastal municipalities. Dozens of people were evacuated from areas at risk. Those in the tourism sector in Puerto Vallarta were asked to shelter workers and tourists safely by Friday afternoon.

In Puerto Vallarta, businesses have been preparing for the hurricane. Shops, hotels, and other businesses started boarding up windows. Jesus Gómez, standing outside a shop, expressed hope that the storm would not be severe. “Let’s hope it doesn’t hit us,” he said while distributing candied peanuts to passersby. Civil Protection officials instructed businesses to close if necessary and take shelter.

The hurricane center warned of a dangerous storm surge near the coast and large, destructive waves accompanying the surge. Canadian tourist Ed Currie, in Puerto Vallarta with his wife for five more days, explained that they planned to remain in their hotel and watch the storm from their window. “I just don’t know what to expect,” he said.

The Pacific season has been busier than the Atlantic, which saw its first named hurricane, Isaias, this week. Simon follows closely after Polo, which impacted Mexico as a Category 2 hurricane last week, later causing heavy flooding in the southwestern U.S.