Although Tropical Storm Simon is moving over cooler Sea Surface Temperatures (SSTs) its circulation is spinning down more slowly than originally anticipated.  As a result, the government of Mexico has issued a Tropical Storm Watch for the portion of the coast of Baja California that extends from Punta Abreojos to Punta Eugenia.

At 5:00 p.m. EDT the center of Tropical Storm Simon was located at latitude 25.8°N and longitude 117.4°W, which put it about 200 miles southwest of Punta Eugenia.  Simon was moving toward the north at 7 m.p.h.  The maximum sustained wind speed was 50 m.p.h. and the minimum surface pressure was 999 mb.  Winds to tropical storm force extended out 120 miles from the center of circulation, which placed them within 80 miles from the coast of Baja California.

Strong southwesterly winds in the upper levels are generating wind shear over the top of Simon.  In addition, it is over cooler SSTs.  The shear and cooler water will continue to weaken Simon.   There is slightly warmer water near the coast of Baja California, which could maintain the circulation long enough for it to make landfall.  Simon is expected to move northeastward toward Baja California and it could possible bring tropical storm force winds to some portions of the coast.  The moisture associated with Simon will also bring an enhanced chance for rain and some areas could get locally heavy rainfall.