Hurricane Simon Reaches Category 2 and Strengthens Off Mexico's Coast
Hurricane Simon, affecting Mexico's Pacific coast, has been upgraded to Category 2, while authorities warned of heavy rainfall and flood risks in the region.
Hurricane Simon, intensifying off Mexico's Pacific coast, has reached Category 2 status. The National Hurricane Center reported that the storm could strengthen further over the weekend into a major hurricane, potentially causing life-threatening floods and landslides in coastal areas.
Hurricane Speed and Wind Conditions
With maximum sustained winds reaching approximately 155 kilometers per hour, Hurricane Simon is expected to continue rapidly strengthening in the coming days.
Warnings Issued by Authorities
U.S. forecasters issued a hurricane watch for parts of the central and southwestern coasts, announcing that hurricane-force winds are expected in the region.
Sergio Ramírez, director of civil protection in Jalisco, emphasized the need for caution, stating that last-minute plans could lead to loss of life.
Education and Evacuation Efforts
The state of Jalisco suspended classes for Friday and Monday across 22 coastal municipalities and began evacuating dozens of people from at-risk areas.
The tourism sector in Puerto Vallarta was asked to relocate workers and visitors to safe shelters by Friday afternoon.
Impacts in Guerrero and Acapulco
In the state of Guerrero, heavy rains also prompted the suspension of classes and non-essential activities.
In the port of Acapulco, streets turned into rivers, vehicles were swept away, and homes and businesses were flooded; Governor Evelyn Salgado announced that no fatalities had been reported from the incidents.
Expectations for Tropical Storm Rachel
Further north, Tropical Storm Rachel, with maximum winds of 85 kilometers per hour, is expected to reach Baja California, northwestern Mexico, and southern California over the weekend.