Hurricane Simon Reaches Category 4 Off Mexico Coast

Hurricane Simon strengthened to Category 4 on October 10, 2026, as it moved toward Mexico's west-central coast, where authorities prepared for heavy rain, flooding and dangerous storm conditions affecting parts of Michoacan, Colima and Jalisco.

The National Hurricane Center in Miami said Simon's maximum sustained winds reached 150 mph (240 kph), making it a major hurricane. The center expected the storm to be near or just inland of Mexico's coast on Sunday.

The National Hurricane Center warned that rainfall from Simon could bring 10 to 20 inches (25-50 cm) of rain across southwestern Mexico, with some areas receiving up to 30 inches (76 centimeters).

"This rainfall will produce life-threatening flooding and mudslides, especially in areas of steep terrain," said the National Hurricane Center in Miami.

Jalisco state suspended classes on Friday and Monday in 22 coastal municipalities and began evacuating dozens of people from vulnerable areas. Officials also asked the tourism sector in Puerto Vallarta to place workers and visitors in shelters or safe zones.

The hurricane center also warned about coastal hazards as Simon approached. The agency said a dangerous storm surge was expected near the landfall area, accompanied by large and destructive waves.

"The hurricane could be near or just inland of Mexico's west-central coast on Sunday," said the National Hurricane Center in Miami.

Businesses in Puerto Vallarta, including convenience stores and hotels, boarded up windows Saturday morning as fewer people walked the streets under overcast skies.

"Dangerous storm surge along the immediate coast near and to the east of where the center makes landfall," said the National Hurricane Center in Miami.

Jalisco authorities continued preparations after tropical-storm conditions were expected to arrive Saturday afternoon, according to the National Hurricane Center bulletin.