Weather
Weather news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
WeatherHurricane season, meteorological summer begins as daily rain chances return to the Valley
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Monday, June 1, marks the first day of the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season but also the start of meteorological summer. Throughout the week, moisture content in the atmosphere will increase, combining with the sea breeze to bring the Valley daily isolated to scattered showers and thunderstorms. A strong but elevated storm
WeatherSevere Weather Special: Know How to Protect Yourself During Climate Emergencies
Every year, massive tropical systems form over the warm waters of the ocean, bringing destructive winds, dangerous storm surges, and floods that can transform entire communities in a matter of hours. Hurricanes thus represent one of the most significant threats to families in South Texas. Preparing for severe weather does not start when the storm arrives, but much earlier. Understanding the risks, reviewing insurance, preparing a family plan, staying alert to official warnings, and acting in a timely manner can save lives during hurricanes, floods, fires, blackouts, hail, and extreme heat. Severe storms can bring damaging winds, hail, torrential rain, lightning, and even tornadoes. Meteorologists explain that for a storm to strengthen, several ingredients must come together: moisture, atmospheric instability, a lifting mechanism, and changes in wind direction or speed at different levels of the atmosphere. Any alteration in these factors can change the intensity, duration, or path of a storm, which is why forecasts are constantly updated. Additionally, observing the sky can provide signals: high, bulging, or tilted clouds may indicate more intense storms, especially if structures like cumulonimbus or mammatus clouds develop. Insurance specialists warn that many homeowners' policies do not cover damage caused by flooding from outside sources. Therefore, they recommend checking in advance if one has flood insurance, as some coverages require a waiting period before they take effect. Key recommendations include: reviewing the insurance policy before the season, repairing damage to roofs, doors, and windows, trimming branches or trees that could fall on the home, preparing a family evacuation plan, having water, non-perishable food, medications, and important documents ready, and knowing the flood and wind risk in your area. Cities like Weslaco have experienced severe flooding in recent years, partly due to drainage systems that do not always respond to current urban growth. Consequently, local authorities are working on stormwater infrastructure projects to improve water flow and reduce the impact of future extreme rains. Notable improvements include new drainage boxes, retention ponds, and systems to direct water to channels outside urban areas. Experts remind the community to also help by avoiding littering in sewers, drains, and channels. Hail poses a risk that can cause severe damage. Hail forms when raindrops are lifted within a storm and freeze in the colder areas of the cloud. As the ice circulates within the storm, more water droplets adhere to it until it becomes too heavy and falls to the surface. The stronger the storm, the larger the hail can be. The Valley has recorded events with large hail capable of damaging vehicles, roofs, windows, and, in extreme cases, injuring people or animals.
WeatherRio Grande Valley Faces Water Reckoning as Leaders Warn of Hard Choices Ahead
The RGV Connect Water Forum, held on April 15, 2026, at Texas Southmost College, focused on water security and regional growth in the Rio Grande Valley. Moderated by Colin McDonald from the Texas Water Foundation, the forum featured discussions among public officials, utility leaders, and agricultural representatives about the Valley's water challenges. While the region is not running out of water, the reliability of this resource is changing. Panelists emphasized the need for regional cooperation and local solutions to address water shortages affecting agriculture, including the closure of the Rio Grande Valley Sugar Mill, which resulted in a loss of 500 jobs and $100 million annually.
WeatherHurricane Season Begins in the Atlantic: What to Expect
The Atlantic hurricane season officially begins on June 1 and runs until November 30, 2026. Meteorologists predict a slightly less active season than usual, with a 55% chance of below-average activity. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) forecasts 8 to 14 named storms, 3 to 6 hurricanes, and 1 to 3 major hurricanes (Category 3 to 5). The expected development of a strong El Niño pattern may influence this season's activity. The Colorado State University also anticipates 13 named storms, with 6 reaching hurricane status. Residents are advised to prepare emergency supplies and have an evacuation plan ready.
WeatherA chance for showers and thunderstorms each afternoon this week
RIO GRANDE VALLEY, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Well, the rain we saw last week has definitely done us some good. Monthly rainfall totals are looking fabulous, with cities like Brownsville, Harlingen, and McAllen all above normal averages for this month. The drought monitor shows the improvements as well, with now only dry to moderate conditions across the
WeatherHot and humid this weekend turns to more rain and thunderstorms next week
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) -- Grab your bottle of water and that big, floppy hat before heading outdoors this weekend. Daytime high temperatures will push to the mid 90s across the mid and upper Valley areas Saturday and Sunday. The real concern comes with elevated humidity as the heat index will push past 100 degrees each
WeatherThe heat is on through the weekend
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — As high pressure settles in, this will bring us a sunny, quiet, dry but hot weather pattern through the weekend. This Friday afternoon will see highs in the low to mid-90s under lots of sunshine. Factor in mugginess, and the feels-like temps will climb up to 105°. The UV index will
WeatherRecent rain quenching Valley drought for the short term
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — After weeks of dry, dusty conditions, the recent stretch of rain across the Rio Grande Valley has been a pretty big deal. Thunderstorms have rolled through with some decent soaking rains, dropping a few inches in many spots and even more in isolated areas. It’s the kind of rain that doesn’t
WeatherCameron County residents dealing with flooding and other damages following severe storm
Residents in Cameron County are recovering from a severe storm that caused localized flooding and power outages in the Lower Valley. Emergency crews surveyed affected areas on Wednesday, reporting no floodwater entering homes. In Brownsville, a tree fell in front of a resident's house on Esperanza Lane, blocking the entrance. Wind gusts reached 41 mph at the local airport. South Padre Island experienced street flooding, while San Benito residents, like Karyana Martinez, faced water-covered streets, a recurring issue for her neighborhood. As hurricane season approaches, officials urge residents to prepare emergency kits with essential supplies.
WeatherFacing the Fury 2026: Post-storm dangers can be deadlier than the storm
Post-storm dangers can be more lethal than the storm itself, with many deaths occurring after the event. In the Rio Grande Valley, risks such as flooding, extreme heat, and power outages have been observed. Carbon monoxide poisoning from improperly used generators is a significant concern, with at least two reported cases in the last six years, one of which was fatal. The CDC notes a rise in carbon monoxide poisoning cases following storms. Safety tips include never using generators indoors, keeping them away from homes, and staying clear of downed power lines. Flooding remains a leading cause of storm-related deaths in the U.S.
WeatherFacing the Fury 2026: Weslaco family reflects on riding out Hurricane Beulah nearly 60 years later
Meteorologist Andrew Chung revisits Hurricane Beulah, which struck the Rio Grande Valley in September 1967, bringing 15 to 30 inches of rain. Residents Robert and David Ault recall the terrifying night, with high winds destroying structures in their neighborhood. Fortunately, no fatalities occurred in the Valley, although flooding caused significant issues. Cathy Ault shares her family's experience of initially planning to evacuate but ultimately returning to Weslaco, where their home sustained minimal damage. Reflecting on the storm, Robert emphasizes the importance of preparedness, urging residents not to become complacent about future hurricanes.
Weather'It starts arcing and then fails': AEP details cause of South Padre Island outages and fixes
SOUTH PADRE ISLAND, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Major improvements are coming to South Padre Island’s power grid as AEP Texas works to reduce outages and strengthen the island’s electrical infrastructure. City leaders say power interruptions have long been a challenge due to the island’s coastal environment and exposure to severe weather. “We are at a salt
WeatherWeslaco crews clear drains following flooding from recent storm
Weslaco crews worked on Wednesday to clear drains following recent flooding caused by a storm. Utilizing a CCTV system introduced six months ago, they identified debris blocking the drains. Local resident Julian Cantu III expressed frustration about navigating flooded streets, emphasizing the dangers of driving through high water. Mayor Adrian Gonzalez reported that all 150 public works employees were deployed to focus on flood-prone areas, including Missouri Street and downtown. The surveillance device used can inspect pipes as small as four inches and up to 800 feet deep. Residents are encouraged to bag grass clippings to prevent clogs in the drains.
Weather“Storm Safe with Sunny” Puppet Shows to Teach Children Hurricane Preparedness through June and July
Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez, along with the Office of Emergency Management and Fire Marshal, is launching 'Storm Safe with Sunny,' a puppet show aimed at teaching children about hurricane preparedness. The kickoff event is set for June 3, 2026, at 10 a.m. at the Pharr Memorial Library. This educational program will engage children through storytelling, games, and activities led by puppet characters Sunny and Stormy. Attendees will receive a free activity booklet, and parents will get resources to help their families prepare for storms. The show will tour libraries across Hidalgo County throughout the summer, including evening and Saturday performances.
WeatherDrought conditions improving for now
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The latest drought data was released Thursday morning and it shows some solid improvements for the Rio Grande Valley, with no drought indicated in a few areas along the river in the Upper Valley, dry conditions for much of Starr and Hidalgo counties, and then moderate drought for eastern Hidalgo County
WeatherDo you think it's hot now? The next 5 years will break records, according to the UN
According to new projections from the United Nations, the Earth is likely to exceed the international climate threshold multiple times over the next five years, potentially breaking the record for the hottest year. The World Meteorological Organization predicts a significant temperature rise in the Arctic and increased risks of drought and wildfires in the Amazon. There is a 75% chance that global temperatures will surpass 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels between 2026 and 2030, which could lead to severe weather events and ecological consequences. The report emphasizes the urgency of addressing climate change as extreme conditions are already being felt worldwide.
Weather'Growth can be negative': Heavy rain creates new problems for Valley farmers
ALAMO, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Recent rainfall across the Rio Grande Valley is giving local farmers much-needed relief after months of dry conditions, helping crops, livestock, and soil recover. But, while the rain is welcome, farmers say too much of it can quickly create new challenges and rising costs. Parts of the Valley have received several
WeatherDry weekend ahead, rain returns soon after
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Our Wednesday morning started off on the stormy side, as linear thunderstorms moved across the Valley, with some of those storms becoming severe. These storms brought some pretty impressive rainfall totals for most of the Valley. Futurecast indicates that it should remain mostly dry for the remainder of Wednesday, with possible
WeatherWildlife biologist speaks about recent alligator sighting in Starr County
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Rainy weather conditions played a part in a recent alligator sighting in the Rio Grande Valley, according to a local wildlife biologist. On May 20, an alligator was spotted by Military Road and Grulla Elementary School in Starr County, a game warden with Texas Parks and Wildlife confirmed. "It was an