Weather
Weather news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
WeatherForecasters Predict El Niño Pattern Could Be the Strongest on Record
Meteorologists predict that the upcoming El Niño pattern could be the strongest on record, leading to more extreme weather events globally. Jeff Berardelli, chief meteorologist at WFLA-TV, noted that unprecedented weather phenomena may occur. The World Meteorological Organization forecasts the development of El Niño from mid-year, impacting global temperature and rainfall patterns. While models suggest a strong event, they also warn of challenges in making precise predictions. El Niño typically occurs every two to seven years and lasts nine to twelve months, potentially causing heat waves, droughts, and severe flooding, particularly in the Caribbean and the southwestern U.S.
WeatherStorm Prediction Center placed parts of the Valley under marginal risk for strong storms tonight
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) —The Storm Prediction Center has placed parts of the Rio Grande Valley under a marginal risk for strong to severe storms later tonight into Saturday morning. Storms developing over the Sierra Madre may drift into the Valley and tap into deep moisture over western Starr County. While conditions aren’t perfect for severe weather, the atmosphere could support a few isolated strong
WeatherLast bout of rain leaves the Valley by noon Saturday for a nice weekend
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The mechanism driving recent rain and thunderstorm activity is moving away from the Rio Grande Valley by lunchtime on Saturday. In the wake of the recent rainmaker, the Valley will see clearing conditions settle in by Saturday afternoon. This trend will bring forth a fantastic Sunday for Mother's Day. The only
Weather2026 Hurricane Season Guide Released for Rio Grande Valley Residents
The 2026 Hurricane Preparedness guide for the Rio Grande Valley is now available, urging residents to start planning as the hurricane season begins on June 1. The guide includes essential information on evacuation routes, emergency contacts, and safety recommendations. Notable storm names for this season include Arthur, Bertha, and Cristobal. Residents are advised to prepare a supply kit with food, water, and medical supplies for at least a week, and to plan evacuation routes, especially given the region's growing population. Key contacts for emergencies include 2-1-1 for shelter services and 9-1-1 for urgent situations.
WeatherFriday brings the heat, humidity, & more rain chances
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — After receiving some mostly beneficial rains overnight and this morning, we are looking at a rather hot and humid afternoon with a scattered shower or thunderstorm still possible. Our highs will be close to 90 across most of the Valley this afternoon. Another round of overnight showers and thunderstorms is possible
WeatherWarnings Issued for Rain and Possible Isolated Flooding in Starr County
The National Weather Service has issued a warning for potential flooding in Starr County due to expected rainfall in the area. Communities such as Los Álvarez, Los Garza, Roma, and Rio Grande City may experience isolated flooding in the coming hours, along with Escobares, La Rosita, and Garceño. Additional rainfall is expected to accumulate between one and two inches, which could worsen conditions in already saturated areas. Residents are advised to stay alert to weather conditions, avoid crossing flooded areas, and follow local authorities' guidance.
WeatherOvernight Heavy Rain and Frequent Lightning Possible Across the Valley
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A weak cold front slipped through the Valley but just barely. Now it will hang out as a developing system where it will act as a trigger for showers, times of steady rain, and frequent lightning. This stalled boundary will transition into a rainmaker while it sloshes to the north along
WeatherOvernight Heavy Rain and Frequent Lightning Possible Across the Valley
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A weak cold front slipped through the Valley but just barely. Now it will hang out as a developing system where it will act as a trigger for showers, times of steady rain, and frequent lightning. This stalled boundary will transition into a rainmaker while it sloshes to the north along
WeatherTim Smith takes us inside a hurricane recon plane
As hurricane season approaches, Chief Meteorologist Tim Smith from First Warn 5 Weather Team visited Lake Charles, Louisiana, to meet with hurricane hunters. During this hurricane awareness tour, he provided an inside look at a reconnaissance plane that gathers crucial data by flying directly into storms and hurricanes. This initiative aims to prepare the community for the upcoming storm season. Viewers can watch the video to learn more about the operations and technology involved in hurricane reconnaissance.
WeatherRio Grande Valley at slight risk for severe weather
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The high temperatures on Thursday afternoon will stay below 90 degrees, partly due to the increased cloud cover and an increasing chance of rain at night going into Friday. A new area of low pressure will lift northeastward overnight, giving us a good chance for scattered showers and thunderstorms. At this time,
WeatherChief Meteorologist Tim Smith in Louisiana for hurricane awareness tour
Chief Meteorologist Tim Smith is visiting Lake Charles, Louisiana, as part of a hurricane awareness tour. He will meet with the hurricane hunters, a team responsible for flying into storms to collect crucial data that aids meteorologists in making accurate predictions. This initiative highlights the importance of preparedness and understanding hurricane behavior. The visit emphasizes the collaboration between meteorologists and storm researchers to enhance public safety during hurricane season.
WeatherModerate heat remains in the forecast for Thursday, passing cold front will bring some relief
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Thursday will feature mild to warm conditions, with highs climbing into the mid‑80s and keeping the Valley under a moderate heat risk. By Thursday evening, a weak cold front will begin sliding into the region. As it interacts with a very moist atmosphere, it will help trigger showers — some of which may
WeatherHeat advisory from 1 to 7 p.m.
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory for much of the Valley from 1 to 7 pm on Wednesday. The shaded areas are where the combination of heat and humidity will make afternoon temperatures possibly feel like 110+ degrees during the hottest part of the day. Heat stress indicators
WeatherDangerous heat gives way to storms as another cold front approaches the Valley
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Temperatures pushing to or past 100 degrees, coupled with high humidity, will make Wednesday a seriously hot experience. The heat index will push 110 degrees in many places. Be careful when working or playing outdoors on Wednesday. The risk of experiencing heat stress or dehydration will be dangerously high. Drink lots of
WeatherHeat & humidity peak before late-week pattern change
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) —When it comes to the forecast, heat and humidity are the top stories today and tomorrow. We're looking at highs in the mid-90s (east) to the low 100s (west) this Tuesday afternoon, then warming into the upper 90s to low 100s by Wednesday afternoon. The muggy airmass, combined with hot temperatures and
WeatherWinds from the south may bring hazy conditions back to the Valley this week
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — We began the week with below‑average temperatures and widespread cloud cover, and those cloudy skies are expected to continue through the weekend. However, air quality may take a hit as southerly winds could carry smoke particles into the Valley between Tuesday and Wednesday. A strengthening high‑pressure system will further trap pollutants near
WeatherPharr hosting free hurricane preparedness event with supplies, generator giveaway
Pharr is organizing a free hurricane preparedness event on Tuesday at the Salinas Recreation Center, just weeks before the hurricane season begins. Channel 5 Meteorologist Andrew Chung will attend, and participants can win various supplies, including a generator, which requires attendance to win. Pharr spokesperson Kenia Gomez emphasized the importance of preparedness, stating that smaller items like batteries and flashlights will also be available. The event aims to provide valuable information for residents to ensure they are ready for potential storms. It begins at 6 p.m.
WeatherA couple of hot breezy days ahead
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Summer will give us another brief reminder that it is not too far away, as our highs will climb into the 90s after today. The wind machine will be kicking in a bit, also making for breezy and humid conditions on Tuesday and Wednesday. By Thursday, we get to think about
WeatherPreliminary Magnitude 6 Earthquake Shakes Areas of Mexico
A preliminary magnitude 6 earthquake struck near Oaxaca, Mexico, on Monday morning, with tremors felt in several southern cities, including Mexico City, where the seismic alert was activated. The National Seismological Service initially reported the quake at magnitude 6 but later downgraded it to 5.6, while the U.S. Geological Survey classified it as 5.7. The epicenter was located 24 kilometers west of Pinotepa Nacional at 9:19 a.m. local time. President Claudia Sheinbaum stated there were no reported damages or casualties. Authorities are coordinating with local civil protection units for a preliminary assessment of the area.