Simon strengthens into a Category 4 hurricane as it approaches Mexico's coast

What happened: Hurricane Simon strengthened into a Category 4 storm as it approaches Mexico's coast, with landfall expected late Saturday or early Sunday. Key numbers: Maximum sustained winds 145 mph (230 kph). Rainfall of 10 to 20 inches (25-50 cm), up to 30 inches in some areas. Jalisco suspended classes Friday and Monday in 22 coastal municipalities. Why it matters: The NHC warned the rainfall will produce life-threatening flooding and mudslides, especially in steep terrain. Jalisco began evacuating at-risk areas and asked Puerto Vallarta tourism operators to shelter workers and visitors. Coverage: 3 outlets in 24h

Hurricane Simon strengthened into a Category 4 storm as it approaches Mexico's coast, with landfall expected late Saturday or early Sunday.

The NHC warned the rainfall will produce life-threatening flooding and mudslides, especially in steep terrain. Jalisco began evacuating at-risk areas and asked Puerto Vallarta tourism operators to shelter workers and visitors.