Weather
Weather news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
WeatherRecent rain denting the drought
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) —All the rain we have been receiving over the last few weeks is making a definite difference in our drought conditions. New data released Thursday morning shows that some areas of Hidalgo and Starr counties are no longer considered in drought, while areas indicated in yellow are categorized as experiencing dry conditions.
WeatherFans Will Not Be Allowed to Bring Water Bottles to 2026 World Cup Stadiums, Says FIFA
Fans attending the 2026 World Cup matches will be prohibited from entering stadiums with reusable water bottles, a last-minute policy change that could raise concerns about heat during the tournament this summer. 'FIFA made the decision to ban bottles to prevent risks and injuries to players and visitors,' a spokesperson for the global football governing body told NBC News in a statement on Thursday. 'Outside bottles are already banned at several of these venues for security reasons, and FIFA is applying this criterion at the stadiums of its tournament,' the statement noted. The measure comes as heat is expected to be a significant issue during the tournament, which is jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. In parts of the southern U.S., daytime temperatures often reach the mid-80s Fahrenheit and higher during June and July. The Club World Cup, held in the U.S. last summer, generated complaints from players and fans about the heat.
WeatherExcessive rain fall in the forecast through Friday
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) —The Weather Prediction Center has issued a marginal risk for excessive rainfall across the entire Rio Grande Valley through Friday evening. This outlook is driven by a combination of sea-breeze-induced showers and thunderstorms, along with additional storm development over the Sierra Madre in México. Together, these features create the atmospheric conditions that warrant the advisory. An excessive rainfall outlook indicates an isolated potential for
WeatherDon’t let the sunshine fool you, showers & thunderstorms remain in the forecast
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Just like on Tuesday, rain activity will stay isolated to widely scattered. The severe weather threat is low but not zero; damaging winds and large hail can't be ruled out completely, but, to reiterate, the threat is wicked low. Those who do see anything fire up will see periods of heavy
WeatherTropical Storm Amanda Forms, First of the Pacific Hurricane Season
Tropical Storm Amanda formed on Wednesday in the Pacific, marking the first cyclone of the 2026 hurricane season, according to the National Hurricane Center. As of the NHC's 8:00 a.m. PT bulletin, the system was located 1,475 miles west-southwest of the southern tip of Baja California, with sustained winds of 40 miles per hour and moving at 8 mph. The system does not pose an immediate threat to land, according to the NHC. The storm is expected to make a turn toward the west and west-southwest with a slower movement this weekend. The NHC forecasts further strengthening in the coming days, followed by weakening. There are currently no warnings or advisories in effect for the tropical storm. The Pacific hurricane season began on May 15, while the Atlantic hurricane season started on Monday, with no cyclones formed in that basin this year.
WeatherI-69E southbound frontage road in Primera reopens following flooding
The southbound frontage road of I-69E in Primera reopened on Tuesday night following a closure due to flooding. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) had issued a flood advisory for the area, which lasted until 6 p.m. on Tuesday, after the region experienced up to three inches of rainfall. While the flooding initially impacted both the northbound and southbound frontage roads, TxDOT confirmed that the northbound road is now clear and safe for travel.
WeatherRio Grande Valley shrimpers adjust work plans as hurricane season begins
As hurricane season begins, shrimpers in the Rio Grande Valley are adjusting their work plans to account for potential tropical weather. EJ Cuevas, who runs Cuevas Trawlers, emphasizes the need to stay informed about weather conditions while shrimping. Unlike those on land, shrimpers often receive storm updates from crews at sea, allowing them to make timely decisions about safety. When storms approach, boats may need to dock at distant ports, and crews prepare by securing vessels with ropes. Cuevas recalls the chaos before Hurricane Dolly, highlighting the unpredictable nature of their work and the importance of safety during this season.
WeatherDisaster recovery loans available for Valley residents following severe storms
A disaster outreach center has opened in San Benito to help residents apply for federal disaster recovery loans, as announced by the U.S. Small Business Administration. These low-interest loans are available for small businesses, nonprofits, and residents in Cameron, Hidalgo, and Willacy counties affected by storms and tornadoes from April 24 to May 1, as well as those impacted by the May 9 storms. Businesses can borrow up to $2 million, while homeowners can apply for loans up to $500,000. The center is located at 705 N. Bowie St. and operates Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Applications for physical damage are due by July 6.
WeatherDaily afternoon showers continue through the week
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) -- The weather is settling into a pretty classic early-June South Texas groove — hot, humid, and just unstable enough to keep things interesting. Things off Wednesday with a mix of sun and clouds and a noticeable uptick in moisture. By the afternoon, expect scattered thunderstorms to bubble up, especially after noon,
WeatherExtreme weather can whip up anxiety. A safety plan can help
Extreme weather events like hurricanes and wildfires can lead to increased anxiety. Mental health experts emphasize the importance of having a safety plan to mitigate stress during such disasters. Ruben Juarez, a health economist, highlights that preparation is crucial for both safety and mental well-being. Creating an evacuation plan and emergency kit can provide a sense of control. It's also vital to communicate openly with children about storms while managing adult conversations to avoid alarming them. Maintaining mental health is essential, as disasters can impact entire communities, even those not directly affected. Support from others and engaging in positive activities can help.
WeatherI-69E southbound frontage road in Primera closed due to flooding
The southbound frontage road of I-69E in Primera was closed due to flooding but reopened on Tuesday night. The Texas Department of Transportation had issued a flood advisory for the area, which experienced up to three inches of rain. While the southbound road was affected, the northbound frontage road was also impacted but has since been cleared according to TxDOT. The flood advisory was in effect until 6 p.m. on Tuesday.
WeatherValley homeowners, businesses affected by May storms can apply for disaster loans
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Qualifying homeowners, renters, and businesses that were affected by severe weather in late April and early May can apply for federal assistance, Gov. Greg Abbott announced on Tuesday. Abbott said the U.S. Small Business Administration approved his request to include the Rio Grande Valley in a federal disaster declaration following the
WeatherRoads in Primera close due to flooding: TxDOT
PRIMERA, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Texas Department of Transportation is alerting drivers about road closures in Primera due to flooding on Tuesday afternoon. Officials with TxDOT report that the northbound I-69E exit to Primera Road and the southbound I-69E frontage road just south of Primera Road are currently closed. Drivers are advised not to drive
WeatherFlood advisory issued in Cameron County
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A flood advisory is in effect for Cameron County until 6 p.m. on Tuesday. According to the advisory, minor flooding may occur in low-lying and poor drainage areas. A radar created by our Valley Storm Team shows a cluster of thunderstorms affecting the northwest area of Cameron County and parts of
WeatherGovernor Announces SBA Assistance for Storm-Impacted South Texas
Governor Greg Abbott announced that the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved federal disaster assistance for South Texas, following severe storms that affected the Rio Grande Valley in late April and early May. The counties of Cameron, Hidalgo, and Willacy are included in this declaration. The SBA will offer low-interest loans to homeowners, renters, and businesses impacted by the storms. A Disaster Loan Outreach Center will open in San Benito to assist applicants with the process. Residents can apply online or contact the SBA for more information on available assistance.
WeatherSpotty showers again today
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Look for just a few spotty showers again on Tuesday. They will most likely occur in the afternoon, with the sea breeze triggering isolated showers and possibly a thunderstorm. Most will be small and short-lived. Highs this afternoon will reach the lower 90's for much of the Valley, with mid-90s expected
WeatherSea breeze effect brings a chance of rain showers
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) -- Over the next week, the Rio Grande Valley will experience isolated showers and thunderstorms driven by the sea breeze effect. This phenomenon occurs when cooler, moist Gulf air meets the warmer air over land, sparking daily rounds of showers and storms. While severe weather isn’t expected, some storms could be locally heavy, with frequent lightning and loud afternoon thunderstorms, especially on Tuesday and
WeatherSouth Padre Island shares hurricane season preparedness tips
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The city of South Padre Island shared hurricane season preparation tips on Monday. Hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30. HURRICANE SPECIAL: Watch Preparing for Tomorrow, our Valley Storm Team's 2026 hurricane special here. "Planning what to do in advance is an important part of being prepared," the city
WeatherPreparing for Tomorrow: Valley Storm Team hurricane special
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Hurricane season has arrived, and the Valley Storm Team has put together its annual 30-minute special to be sure all Valley residents are prepared for what could come tomorrow. The Atlantic Hurricane season begins June 1 and runs through November. The fastest storm to hit the state of Texas only took