Hurricane Simon Hits Mexico's Pacific Coast

Hurricane Simon is currently battering Mexico's Pacific coast as a Category 4 storm, with its eye remaining just offshore and powerful winds and rain affecting coastal areas.

Forecasters at the U.S. National Hurricane Center noted that it is unclear if the storm will make landfall, which could mean it maintains its dangerous strength with sustained winds of 150 mph.

Residents in Puerto Vallarta, a popular tourist destination, face risks as many live in communities inland and uphill, where housing may not withstand the storm's intensity.

As of daybreak, Simon was centered about 110 miles south-southeast of Cabo Corrientes, moving north-northwest at 6 mph. A senior hurricane center specialist indicated that Cabo Corrientes is the most likely location for landfall.

The hurricane center warned of catastrophic wind and life-threatening storm surge impacts along the west central coast of Mexico, as well as heavy rainfall that could lead to flooding and mudslides in higher terrain.

Jalisco state suspended classes in 22 coastal municipalities and began evacuating people from at-risk areas, while urging the tourism sector to ensure workers and visitors are accommodated in shelters or safe zones.

In Puerto Vallarta, businesses were boarding up windows ahead of the storm, with some residents preparing for the worst despite the uncertainty of the storm's path.