Hurricane Simon churns off Mexican coast after shift in course

Hurricane Simon, a powerful Category 4 storm, is expected to pass close to Mexico's coast without making landfall, according to forecasts. The cyclone, which is moving slowly, has already caused heavy rain and severe winds along the coast. Despite initial predictions of a landfall, data from hurricane hunter aircraft revealed that the storm was moving slower than expected, and would only reach about 15 kilometers off the coast of Jalisco state.

Fabian Vazquez, director of Mexico's meteorological service, warned that even if a direct landfall does not occur, the cloud bands of the cyclone will still affect coastal communities, bringing intense winds, waves up to nine meters high, and exceptionally heavy rainfall. The Mexican Navy has evacuated about 100 people from coastal communities threatened by Simon, and the city of Puerto Vallarta has set up five shelters to accommodate the evacuees.

Residents are taking the storm seriously, boarding up windows and doors, and some are even taking advantage of the relatively mild conditions to enjoy the waterfront promenade.