Hurricane Simon Near Mexico’s Pacific Coast: Closures Begin
Goldlaner.com – Hurricane Simon skirts Mexico’s Pacific coast as communities, resorts and emergency crews prepare for dangerous surf, flooding, heavy rain and powerful winds. Although the Category 4 storm was expected to remain offshore through Monday, officials warned that its proximity could still create serious hazards.
Authorities urged residents in Jalisco, Colima, Michoacán and Nayarit to remain sheltered until conditions are declared safe. Evacuations continued in vulnerable locations, and nonessential activity was suspended in some areas.
At 1 p.m. ET Sunday, Simon was moving north-northwest at 7 mph with maximum sustained winds of 140 mph. The hurricane was about 85 miles west-northwest of Manzanillo, Colima, and 65 miles south-southeast of Cabo Corrientes, Jalisco.
Offshore Track Still Poses a Threat
Earlier forecasts suggested a possible Sunday landfall, but Simon changed course while moving along the coast. Forecasters expected it to stay over water through Monday, while uncertainty remained about whether the storm could turn inland later or continue offshore.
Hurricane Simon skirts Mexico’s Pacific coast close enough to threaten northern Jalisco with strong winds, storm surge and high waves through Monday, according to Mexico’s Civil Protection Agency. Officials cautioned that a brief lull in rain or wind should not be mistaken for the end of the emergency.
“The wind and rain will suddenly and deceptively subside, creating an apparent calm that does not mean the danger has passed,” the Civil Protection Agency said.
Dr. Jorge Zavala, a climate scientist at the National Autonomous University of Mexico, said the projected path raised concerns for several areas. Laura Velázquez Alzúa, national coordinator of the Civil Protection Agency, urged people to remain alert as the system moved near shore.
Airport and Waterfront Disruptions
Puerto Vallarta suspended airport operations as the hurricane moved offshore. The Pacific Airport Group said the airport would remain closed until 10 a.m. ET Monday, while flights at Manzanillo’s airport were also suspended on Sunday.
Police closed Puerto Vallarta’s waterfront boardwalk and directed visitors to seek shelter. The precautions show how an offshore hurricane can disrupt beaches, roads, airports and waterfront districts even when its center does not make landfall.
“We don’t know the extent of the danger yet,” visitor Brenda Villareal said. “We’re just starting to see what’s going on.”
Flooding Response Expands
Heavy rain had already caused flooding in Manzanillo, where Navy personnel helped pump water from homes. Resident Cecilia Palomar said water rose inside her house at dawn, soaking furniture and household appliances.
Federal crews also worked to restore electricity in affected areas, including Acapulco in Guerrero state. Mexico’s Navy deployed more than 4,600 personnel, along with excavators and other equipment, to assist with evacuations, debris removal and flooded neighborhoods.
President Claudia Sheinbaum asked people in affected states to stay in shelter until authorities confirm the danger has passed. As Hurricane Simon skirts Mexico’s Pacific coast, residents were advised to follow official alerts and avoid unnecessary travel near beaches, rivers and low-lying areas.
FAQ for Mexico’s Pacific Coast
Should residents leave shelter if winds or rain briefly stop? No. Officials warned that temporary calm can occur during a hurricane and does not mean hazardous conditions have ended.
Are beaches and waterfront areas safe during the storm? No. High waves, storm surge and strong currents can remain dangerous even when the hurricane stays offshore. Follow local closures and stay away from beaches, jetties and flooded roads.
What should travelers do if their flight is affected? Check directly with the airline and airport for current operations, avoid traveling to closed terminals, and follow directions from local emergency authorities.