Hurricane Simon hits Mexico’s Pacific coast with damaging winds and rain
Hurricane Simon moved alongside Mexico’s Pacific coast on Sunday as a Category 4 storm. Its center stayed offshore, but powerful winds and rain threatened communities near Puerto Vallarta, a major tourist destination in Jalisco.
The U.S. National Hurricane Center said it was uncertain whether Simon would come ashore. The storm had sustained winds of 140 mph, and its most dangerous conditions were expected near Puerto Vallarta from around midnight into Monday morning.
Officials warned of destructive winds, storm surge and heavy rainfall that could trigger flooding and mudslides. Rainfall could reach 10 to 20 inches in many areas, with as much as 30 inches possible in parts of Michoacan, Colima and Jalisco.
Authorities closed waterfront areas and urged people to seek shelter. Jalisco suspended classes in 22 coastal municipalities, started evacuations in at-risk locations and told tourism businesses to ensure workers and visitors had safe places to stay.
President Claudia Sheinbaum urged residents in Jalisco, Colima, Nayarit and Michoacan to remain sheltered until officials say the danger has passed. People were also told to follow civil protection guidance and avoid road travel.
Key points
- Simon’s 140 mph winds threatened the Puerto Vallarta region while the storm’s center remained offshore.
- Heavy rain could cause life-threatening flooding and mudslides along Mexico’s west-central coast.
- Authorities evacuated at-risk areas, suspended classes and urged residents to shelter until danger passes.