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Hurricane Simon nears Mexico with 155 mph winds and flooding fears
NPR • • general
Key Points:
- Hurricane Simon, with winds of 155 mph, is nearing the Pacific coast of Mexico and is expected to move inland soon as a powerful storm just below Category 5 strength.
- The hurricane threatens to bring 10 to 20 inches of rain, with some areas in Michoacan, Colima, and Jalisco potentially receiving up to 30 inches, raising risks of life-threatening flooding and mudslides.
- Jalisco state has suspended classes in 22 coastal municipalities, initiated evacuations, and urged the tourism sector in Puerto Vallarta to prepare shelters for workers and visitors.
- Businesses in Puerto Vallarta are boarding up windows, and residents are preparing to close shops and take shelter as officials advise caution amid dangerous storm surges and large waves expected near the coast.
- Tourists remain cautious but largely confined to hotels, uncertain about the hurricane's impact on their plans as the storm approaches.
