Simon strengthens into a Category 4 hurricane as it approaches Mexico’s coast
The National Hurricane Center in Miami said early Saturday Simon's maximum sustained winds increased to 145 mph (230 kph). A storm of that strength is considered a major hurricane.
Simon has intensified into a Category 4 hurricane as it approaches the coast of Mexico. The National Hurricane Center reported early on Saturday that Simon's maximum sustained winds have reached 145 mph (230 kph), categorizing it as a major hurricane. Authorities predict that Simon could drop up to 10 to 20 inches (25-50 cm) of rain in parts of southwestern Mexico, with some areas potentially receiving up to 30 inches.
The storm is expected to make landfall late Saturday or early Sunday, but tropical storm-strength winds could occur earlier. Heavy rainfall from Simon is anticipated to cause dangerous flooding and mudslides, particularly in regions with steep terrain. Jalisco has closed schools in 22 coastal municipalities since Friday, initiated evacuations from at-risk areas, and called on Puerto Vallarta's tourism industry to ensure adequate shelter for both workers and visitors by Friday afternoon.
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