Hurricane Simon Strikes Mexico's Pacific Coast as Category 3 Storm

Hurricane Simon reached Category 3 strength on the Saffir-Simpson scale and pounded Mexico’s Pacific coast on Sunday. The storm’s eye stayed just offshore while its strongest winds and heaviest rain hit coastal communities between the Sierra Madre mountains and the ocean. Officials in Puerto Vallarta and surrounding areas reported flooding and wind damage. Power outages affected several towns. No comprehensive death toll has been released yet.

The National Hurricane Center tracked Simon as it moved parallel to the coast. Sustained winds near the center reached around 115 mph. Storm surge and heavy rainfall posed the main risks. Mexican civil protection authorities opened shelters and urged residents in low-lying areas to evacuate. Airlines cancelled flights into affected airports. The storm is expected to weaken as it moves northwest but will continue to produce heavy rain over the next day.

Simon is the latest in a series of Pacific hurricanes this season. Earlier systems had already saturated the ground in parts of the region, raising the risk of landslides. Local governments in Jalisco and Nayarit coordinated with the Mexican Navy for rescues and supply distribution. Preliminary reports indicate damage to hotels and small businesses in tourist areas. Full assessments will take days once the rain eases.

The storm’s slow movement increased rainfall totals. Some stations recorded more than 10 inches in 24 hours. Rivers in the region rose quickly. Authorities warned of continued flooding even after the center moves away. International aid offers have not been reported. The Mexican government said it has sufficient resources for the immediate response.

Simon is forecast to become a tropical storm later in the week as it tracks farther from land. Residual moisture could still affect the southwestern United States. Residents along the Pacific coast have been advised to stay clear of beaches and swollen rivers until official all-clear notices are issued.