Simon Expected to Threaten Mexico as Major Hurricane

Hurricane Simon strengthened to Category 4 over the eastern Pacific, with maximum sustained winds of about 150 mph, as it approached Mexico’s west-central coast near Manzanillo and Puerto Vallarta. Forecasters warned of destructive coastal winds and storm surge, as well as torrential rain of 10 to 20 inches and locally up to 30 inches that could cause life-threatening flooding and mudslides. Authorities issued hurricane warnings, suspended classes in 22 coastal municipalities and began evacuations, urging residents and visitors to shelter and follow local instructions. Businesses in Puerto Vallarta boarded up, and emergency and power-repair crews prepared for the storm; travelers were advised to monitor official updates and reconsider travel to affected coastal areas.