Full Breakdown
Tropical Storm Simon Threatens Mexico’s West Coast with Heavy Rain and Hurricane-Force Winds
By Drooid · · How we work
Storm Formation and Forecast
A tropical cyclone organized in the Pacific Ocean off the southwestern coast of Mexico early this week, prompting the National Hurricane Center (NHC) to designate it Tropical Storm Simon. At the time of naming, the storm’s center was situated roughly 175 mi (285 km) south-southeast of Lázaro Cárdenas. The NHC projected that Simon would move toward the coastline later in the week, with a likelihood of strengthening into a hurricane by late Thursday and potentially reaching major-hurricane intensity (winds of 111 mph or higher) by Saturday.
Projected Impacts
The NHC’s advisory indicated that Simon could deliver 8–12 in (20–30 cm) of rain across much of southwestern Mexico through Sunday, with isolated totals of 15–25 in (38–63 cm) possible in parts of Colima and Michoacán. Radio Formula Jalisco reported that the state of Jalisco may see more than 15 in of rain, raising the risk of life-threatening flooding. In addition to rainfall, the center warned of dangerous wind and storm-surge conditions along the west-central coast, with high surf expected to affect a broad stretch of shoreline.
Official Forecasts and Warnings
The agency also highlighted the potential for Simon to make either a full or partial landfall, depending on its exact track.
Potential Consequences
If the forecasted rainfall materializes, the combination of flash flooding and landslides could threaten communities in Jalisco, Colima, Michoacán, and surrounding areas. Elevated surf and storm surge may disrupt coastal infrastructure, ports, and tourism operations. Emergency managers in the region are expected to monitor the storm closely and prepare for rapid-onset flooding and wind damage as Simon approaches.