Hurricane Simon strengthens to Category 4 off Mexico’s Pacific coast

The storm was about 115 miles (185km) south-southwest of Manzanillo, with further strengthening possible before landfall.The hurricane could bring 10 to 20 inches (25 to 51cm) of rain to parts of southwestern Mexico through Sunday.“This rainfall will produce life-threatening flooding and mudslides, especially in areas of steep terrain,” the agency warned, urging residents to complete preparations to protect lives and property.Authorities issued a hurricane warning for parts of the Pacific….

A tropical storm watch was in effect farther south towards Lazaro Cardenas.Jalisco suspended classes on Friday and Monday in 22 coastal municipalities and began evacuating people from at-risk areas.

Officials also urged hotels and other tourism businesses in Puerto Vallarta to ensure workers and visitors had access to shelters or safe locations.Businesses in the popular tourist destination boarded up windows and placed sandbags at entrances as the storm approached.The hurricane centre also warned of a dangerous storm surge and large and destructive waves near where Simon makes landfall.

Puerto Vallarta businesses board up windows as Hurricane Simon threatens Mexico’s west-central coast.