MEXICO CITY — The U.S. Embassy in Mexico has issued a formal travel alert for American citizens residing in or visiting the country as Tropical Storm “Simón” approaches the coast. The storm, which is projected to bring heavy rainfall and potentially intensify into a hurricane, poses a significant threat to several western and central coastal states.

According to an official communique, the embassy is urging U.S. citizens to exercise extreme caution in the states of Colima, Jalisco, Nayarit, and Michoacán. Authorities have specifically advised travelers to avoid beaches and coastal areas, recommending that those in the path of the storm remain in secure indoor locations or at their designated accommodations.

Meteorological reports indicate that “Simón” is expected to strengthen into a hurricane by Friday morning, reaching its peak intensity over the weekend. As of Thursday morning, the storm was located south-southeast of Lázaro Cárdenas in the state of Michoacán.

The storm is forecast to trigger torrential rains, ranging from 150 to 250 millimeters, across the coast and southern regions of Guerrero, as well as the northwest, center, and coast of Oaxaca. The impact is expected to be particularly severe along the Michoacán coastline.

“Dangerous ocean conditions, intensified by the storms, can cause lethal rip currents and giant waves,” the embassy warned in its statement. It further instructed citizens to stay away from the water and to remain vigilant regarding warnings issued by local authorities.

To assist in the event of an emergency, the U.S. government has made an assistance form and various emergency contact numbers available to foreign nationals. Additionally, the embassy noted that travelers with scheduled flights into or out of the country should be prepared for potential disruptions, as high-velocity winds accompanying the heavy precipitation may cause significant delays or cancellations.