Weather
Weather news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
WeatherTornado warning expires in Willacy County, severe thunderstorm warning in effect
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A severe thunderstorm warning is in effect for Willacy County. The warning is in effect until 8:15 p.m. The thunderstorm warning is followed by a tornado warning for Willacy County, which expired at 7:30 p.m. Residents in Willacy County can expect significant storms, hail, and wind gusts reaching up to 60 mph.
WeatherSpaceX reattempts 12th launch from Starbase
STARBASE, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The countdown for the 12th launch of Starship has begun. Starship is expected to launch at 5:30 p.m. on Friday. A livestream of the launch will be available in the video player above. SpaceX said on Friday afternoon that the weather is currently 85% favorable for the anticipated flight. The first attempt
WeatherRio Grande Valley cities distributing sandbags
RIO GRANDE VALLEY, Texas (ValleyCentral) — With rain expected over the next few days, cities in the Rio Grande Valley are distributing sandbags to residents. According to the Valley Storm Team, the return of rain and thunderstorms over the weekend has prompted the National Weather Service to issue a flash flood watch through 7 a.m. Monday.
WeatherA rain respite returns Friday night
HARLINGEN, TEXAS (ValleyCentral) The last two days have brought some beneficial rains for the entire Rio Grande Valley. While we may see a mostly dry day today, the return of rains and thunderstorms over the weekend has prompted the National Weather Service to have a flash flood watch in place through 7 a.m., Monday. Additional
WeatherSeveral Cities Distribute Sandbags Due to Flood Risk in the Region
In anticipation of heavy rains and potential flooding this Saturday, several cities in the Rio Grande Valley are distributing free sandbags to help residents protect their homes. Rio Grande City will distribute sandbags on Friday, May 22, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. with a limit of five bags per household, requiring proof of residency. Mission will continue its weekly distribution every Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the recycling center. Alamo is also providing sandbags for residents with a municipal water account at the Alamo Sports Complex. Seniors and disabled individuals can request assistance for loading bags into their vehicles. Authorities urge residents to prepare and stay updated on weather alerts.
WeatherCameron County Organizes Meeting to Plan for Hurricane Season
Cameron County is hosting a meeting at the Brownsville Events Center to kick off a series of monthly gatherings aimed at hurricane preparedness. The event is intended for municipal officials, school districts, public works staff, emergency services, and drainage and irrigation districts, as well as organizations involved in emergency response. The Cameron County Office of Emergency Management is leading the effort to enhance coordination and readiness among agencies and communities ahead of the official hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30. Participating agencies include the National Weather Service, Texas Division of Emergency Management, and the American Red Cross.
WeatherDaily chance for thunderstorms through next week
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A major change in the weather pattern is here to stay, at least for this forecast period. Rainfall totals over the past 48 hours show nearly four inches in some areas of the Rio Grande Valley. There will be a daily chance for showers and thunderstorms. The Weather Prediction Center indicates up
WeatherValley schools announce backup graduation plans in case of severe weather
Due to ongoing severe weather conditions, several school districts in the Rio Grande Valley are implementing backup plans for graduation ceremonies. Districts such as Harlingen CISD, Los Fresnos CISD, and San Benito CISD in Cameron County, along with Weslaco East High School in Hidalgo County, have announced alternative arrangements. As the situation develops, further updates will be provided as more schools finalize their contingency plans for graduation night.
WeatherFlood watch issued for the entire Rio Grande Valley
A flood watch has been issued for the entire Rio Grande Valley, effective until Monday, May 25, at 6 a.m. Heavy rainfall began early Thursday, especially in Weslaco, where Pike Boulevard and Illinois Avenue are blocked due to flooding. Valley Metro warns of potential delays for all riders. The city of Mission will provide free sandbags every Saturday until the end of hurricane season. Residents in low-lying areas are advised to prepare for possible flooding by clearing drainage and having sandbags ready. As of noon Thursday, there were 277 power outages reported across the Valley.
WeatherHurricane season expected to be mild in 2026, but officials urge Texans to stay prepared
The Texas Division of Emergency Management reports that the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) anticipates a below-normal Atlantic hurricane season in 2026, influenced by the El Niño weather pattern. Forecasts suggest 8 to 14 named storms, with up to three possibly reaching Category 3 or higher. The hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. Officials emphasize the importance of preparedness, noting that even a mild season can still bring significant storms. They advise Texans to have evacuation plans and essential supplies ready, as conditions can change rapidly, especially during peak months from mid-August to late September.
WeatherRepeated storm chances in the days ahead
HARLINGEN, TEXAS (ValleyCentral) – All hazards are on the table for elevated and strong to severe thunderstorms. The general risk day to day is mostly thunder, lightning, heavy rainfall but storms at times could reach severe limits, producing small hail and damaging winds. While the threat of severe weather is low, it's not zero. Excessive
WeatherAAA: Millions of Texans to Travel Over Memorial Day Weekend
AAA forecasts that 45 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles from home for Memorial Day weekend, including 3.7 million Texans. This year's travel predictions show a slight increase compared to last year, setting a new record with 39.1 million traveling by car and 3.66 million flying. Despite higher gas prices, average airfare is lower for those who booked in advance. AAA reminds drivers to prioritize safety and check their vehicles before traveling. Additionally, 178,000 Texans are expected to use buses, trains, or cruises, with increased congestion anticipated on Thursday and Friday afternoons.
WeatherWhat Will the 2026 Hurricane Season Be Like? NOAA Reveals Its Forecast
As the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season approaches, starting June 1 and ending November 30, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is set to release its forecast this Thursday. Colorado State University (CSU) recently predicted a slightly below-average season, expecting 13 named storms, with six potentially reaching hurricane status and two becoming major hurricanes (Category 3 or higher). The National Hurricane Center has announced the names for this year's storms: Arthur, Bertha, Cristobal, and others. The 2025 season was noted for its unusual calm despite three Category 5 hurricanes, with no landfalls in the U.S.
WeatherAEP Texas reports customers across Hidalgo and Starr County without power
HARLINGEN, TEXAS (ValleyCentral) – An electric utility company is reporting major power outages for customers across Starr and Hidalgo county after the National Weather Service issued a severe thunderstorm warning early Thursday morning. Thursday, May 21, 3:59 a.m. The AEP Texas outage map is reporting 1,347 Starr county customers who don't have power. In Hidalgo County,
WeatherHeavy Rain and Power Outages Persist in the Rio Grande Valley
Heavy rains in South Texas continue to impact various counties in the Rio Grande Valley, causing power outages and flash flood risks. The National Weather Service (NWS) reports that between three to six inches of rain have fallen in parts of Deep South Texas, with more expected over the weekend. Due to saturated soil, isolated flash flooding is possible in areas experiencing intense rainfall. In Hidalgo County, about 1,370 homes and businesses are without electricity, affecting approximately 0.39% of monitored customers, while over 300 users in Starr County and 42 in Cameron County are also without power. Residents are advised to stay updated on weather forecasts and avoid flooded streets.
WeatherHidalgo County crews set up mobile pumps ahead of potential severe weather
Hidalgo County crews are proactively preparing for potential severe weather this week by setting up mobile pumps and cleaning ditches. On Wednesday, the Hidalgo County Drainage District No. 1 deployed mobile pumps throughout the county and is also readying permanent pumps to quickly remove water from roads. General Manager Raul Sesin mentioned that crews met last Friday to discuss possible storm impacts, particularly in flood-prone areas like southern Pharr, known as Las Milpas. Officials advise residents to stay home and limit travel during severe weather, and to stay informed through local weather updates.
WeatherAlamo files $60, 000 insurance claim after storm cancels watermelon festival
Alamo has submitted a $60,000 insurance claim following the cancellation of its watermelon festival due to severe weather on May 9. The storm caused damage to the stage and equipment, which were rented for the event. Mayor J.R. Garza emphasized the importance of insurance for protecting the city against unforeseen events. He stated that the claim will assist in covering the damages incurred. Additionally, the bands originally scheduled to perform at the watermelon festival will now participate in Freedom Fest, set for July.
WeatherLoud noise may occur during 12th Starship flight: SpaceX
STARBASE, Texas (ValleyCentral) — SpaceX is alerting residents in Cameron County and around Starbase of the possibility of a loud noise as the aerospace company prepares to launch Starship on Thursday. SpaceX announced on Wednesday night that a loud noise may result from the Starship firing upon ignition. The possibility of loud noise will depend on
WeatherFlash flood advisory in effect for Starr County
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A flood advisory is in effect for Starr County until midnight. At approximately 9:10 p.m. on Wednesday, the radar indicated a slow‑moving storm cell dropping moderate to heavy rain and increasing the risk of flooding. Remember the golden rule: Turn around, don’t drown. Stay safe and avoid flooded roads.