Hurricane Simon has intensified to a formidable Category 4 hurricane off the Pacific coast of Mexico, posing a threat of damaging winds, storm surges, and potentially life-threatening flooding as it approaches landfall. The U.S. National Hurricane Center reported that Simon was positioned approximately 185 kilometers south-southwest of Manzanillo on Saturday morning, with sustained winds reaching 240 km/h as it moved northward.
Forecasts indicate that Simon is set to reach the west-central coast of Mexico as a major hurricane later on Saturday or early Sunday, with a possibility of further strengthening before making landfall. A hurricane warning has been issued for sections of Mexico’s Pacific coast located south of Puerto Vallarta, including the vicinity of Manzanillo, the largest Pacific port in Mexico. Additionally, a tropical storm watch is in effect for areas further south towards Lázaro Cárdenas.
Residents within the warning zone, encompassing the Islas Marías archipelago offshore, are advised by the NHC to expedite preparations to safeguard life and property. AccuWeather meteorologist Dan Pydynowski emphasized the dangers posed by Simon’s rapid strengthening, highlighting the potential for structural damage from strong winds, as well as the risk of flooding, mudslides, and subsequent challenges in recovery efforts.
Mexican authorities have cautioned about heavy rainfall expected in Guerrero, Michoacán, Colima, and Jalisco. Simon is projected to bring 10 to 20 inches (25 to 51 centimeters) of rain across parts of southwestern Mexico by Sunday, with localized amounts possibly reaching up to 30 inches (76 centimeters) in certain areas, leading to life-threatening flooding and mudslides, particularly in mountainous regions.
The NHC has warned of a storm surge along the coast near and east of the anticipated landfall location of the hurricane, coupled with substantial and destructive waves. Swells generated by Simon are forecasted to impact portions of Mexico’s southwestern and west-central coast in the upcoming days, resulting in hazardous surf conditions and rip currents.
Simon is expected to be in close proximity to or just inland of Mexico’s west-central Pacific coast by Sunday. Last week, Hurricane Polo made landfall on the Baja California Peninsula as a Category 2 storm, causing infrastructure damage, flooding, and disruptions.