Weather
Weather news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
WeatherStatewide Flooding: Governor Outlines Emergency Response and Next Steps for Texans
Governor Greg Abbott held a press conference in Austin to address the severe flooding affecting Texas, which is expected to set records. Over 1,300 personnel from more than 30 agencies are activated, with more than 800 vehicles, 75 boats, and 20 aircraft deployed for rescue operations. Abbott declared a disaster for 59 counties and emphasized the importance of saving lives during this crisis. State agencies are monitoring river levels and weather conditions while providing support to local emergency management. Texans are urged to stay informed about weather updates and prepare for potential evacuations.
WeatherContinuing the heat & haze
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The summertime heat and haze will be staying with us for the next few days. Saharan dust continues to enter the area and will vary in intensity over the next few days. We should see a little more of the sun this afternoon than yesterday. A stray shower is not out
WeatherTexas flooding surges as rescuers pull people from rising waters
The National Weather Service in San Antonio said a “large and deadly flood wave” was barreling down the same river wrecked by floods last summer when two dozen children and counselors were killed at Camp Mystic.
WeatherSaharan dust and hazy conditions continue in the forecast
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Another wave of Saharan dust is on the move again, stretching from Africa across the Atlantic, sweeping through the Caribbean and the Gulf, and yes, more of it is headed for the Valley. As this haze settles in over the next several days and likely into next week, here are six practical ways to
WeatherHeavy rains keep drenching South Texas, tornado reported in San Antonio
Heavy rains continue to batter South Texas, leading to significant flooding and a tornado sighting in San Antonio. On Wednesday, July 15, 2026, slow-moving storms caused extensive damage, prompting mandatory evacuations in Uvalde County and warnings for residents in Boerne to evacuate voluntarily. The National Weather Service reported rainfall totals of up to 16 inches in Uvalde County, with high-water rescues ongoing. Authorities warned of dangerous flash flooding, especially in areas west of San Antonio. Texas Governor Greg Abbott declared disasters in multiple counties as first responders worked tirelessly to assist those affected by the severe weather.
WeatherHot, breezy, mostly dry days ahead
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — On tap weather-wise this Wednesday, we'll see near-average highs with many reaching the mid to upper 90s under mostly cloudy skies. As dewpoint temperatures sit in the 70s, not exactly topping out the muggy meter, but it's close, we'll be under a moderate heat risk, plus feels like temps will range
WeatherConsiderable to catastrophic flooding likely through Thursday in Texas, forecasters say
Forecasters are warning of considerable to catastrophic flooding in Texas, particularly along the U.S. 90 corridor west of San Antonio, with heavy rain expected through Thursday. Rainfall totals could reach 10 to 20 inches in some areas, raising concerns for vacationers unfamiliar with flash flood risks. Counties at highest risk include Medina, Frio, Uvalde, and others. Governor Greg Abbott has declared a disaster for 59 counties to facilitate resource allocation. Residents are advised to stay informed about weather updates and avoid flooded roads. Some areas have already experienced over 10 inches of rain, leading to road closures and emergency warnings.
WeatherBig rain upstream could put water in Valley reservoirs
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) -- Ingredients for heavy rain, from the Hill Country to the Big Bend, show signs of benefiting the Valley's two water reservoirs. The threat of rain is expected to last all week. High pressure from the Northern Plains is generating a boundary on the southern edge across Texas. This boundary forms a
WeatherTropical Depression 5-E Forms Off the Coast of Mexico; Could Become a Hurricane
Tropical Depression 5-E formed on Tuesday offshore, off the coast of Mexico, and could strengthen into a hurricane within two days, according to the National Hurricane Center. As of the 5:00 p.m. ET bulletin, the tropical depression was located 560 miles south of the southern tip of Baja California, with maximum sustained winds of 35 mph, moving west at 18 mph. 'Steady strengthening is forecast over the next few days, and the cyclone is expected to become a hurricane by Thursday night,' the statement said. There are currently no coastal watches or warnings in effect.
WeatherHot, dry and hazy this week for the Rio Grande Valley
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A high-pressure system over the northern U.S. is shaping our weather here in the Valley, keeping us on the southern edge of that ridge. That means temperatures will stay right around what we normally expect for this time of year, hot, dry and pretty typical for mid‑July. Rain chances for the Valley
WeatherHeat Dome to Bring Record Temperatures to Much of the U.S. This Week
Another week of scorching heat in the United States will bring even more health risks in the coming days, as nighttime temperatures will offer little relief. The National Weather Service predicts that over 90 temperature records across the country will be tied or broken this week through Wednesday, with most of them being records for nighttime heat. Health experts indicate that nighttime temperatures that fail to drop are even more dangerous than soaring daytime temperatures. Summer has already begun in a stifling manner across much of the U.S. due to the persistent heat dome expected to cover a large part of the territory this week. The sweltering temperatures of recent weeks have led to heat-related deaths in New Jersey and have contributed to wildfires in the western part of the country. The National Weather Service indicated that temperatures were not expected to drop below 80 degrees Fahrenheit at night in Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and Tampa, Florida; Galveston, Texas; and Charleston, South Carolina. In the coming days, areas in the north-central and northeastern regions known for their frigid winters will see nighttime temperatures remaining above 70 ºF, including Fargo, North Dakota; International Falls, Minnesota; and Portland, Maine. Health experts explain that high nighttime temperatures are especially dangerous because there is no time for the body's core temperature to cool down and recover from the daytime heat. "That’s where health effects worsen, particularly for the elderly and vulnerable communities," said Marshall Shepherd, a meteorology professor at the University of Georgia. A rise of just a few degrees in body temperature can lead to heat stroke or overload the heart. The dangers of heat can manifest stealthily. If nighttime temperatures do not cool the body, health risks often become more apparent the next day, explained Kristie Ebi, a public health and climate scientist at the University of Washington. "Mortality begins on the second or third day" because the body cannot cool down, she stated on Monday. Being proactive is crucial during a heat wave. Early warning signs include intense sweating, muscle cramps, and headaches. "It’s hard to know when you’re starting to have heat problems. That’s why we need to be more proactive," Ebi noted. It’s important to find a way to cool down, whether by entering an air-conditioned space or wrapping a cold towel around your neck. Health experts also say not to forget to check in on friends and family, especially those who are elderly, pregnant, or have health issues that may make it harder for them to cope with the heat. How to Beat the Heat Without Air Conditioning: Even without air conditioning at home, there are ways to find relief. Go to a library or shopping mall. Sit in front of a fan and spray water on your skin. Soak your feet in cold water. Dampen your clothes in water. And, of course, drink plenty of water.
WeatherHeat, haze and low rain activity this week
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — For the week ahead we'll see hot and generally rain-free conditions. Monday's look for partly cloudy skies with highs in the mid to upper 90s. It is possible some across Starr County could reach the cent mark later Monday. The muggy airmass sitting overhead will bring heat indexes between 100-110°. This
WeatherDramatic Rescue of Over 200 Children Trapped by Flooding in Missouri
In Missouri, severe flooding from heavy rains has led to emergency rescues, including over 200 children trapped at Camp Taum Sauk in Lesterville. The National Weather Service warned of ongoing severe weather, with potential for additional storms and flash flooding across multiple states. The National Guard used Black Hawk helicopters to evacuate campers to a nearby school. One woman remains missing after her home was swept away in Crawford County. Governor Mike Kehoe declared a state of emergency as hundreds were rescued from trees and vehicles, with major highways rendered impassable due to flooding. Recovery efforts are ongoing.
WeatherDropping water levels blamed for Brownsville resaca fish kill
Dozens of dead fish have been found in a Brownsville resaca near California Road, close to the Brownsville-South Padre International Airport. Texas Parks and Wildlife confirmed that the fish kill is not a public health threat, attributing it to low water levels that can occur during summer months. As water recedes, fish may become stranded and suffer from low oxygen levels. Local residents have noticed the declining water levels, and the Brownsville Irrigation District has cited agricultural irrigation and illegal water pumping as potential causes. The district is currently working to replenish water levels. Cleanup is the responsibility of property owners, and fish kills should be reported to Texas Parks and Wildlife.
WeatherPeople got into a panic: Reactions to shaking caused by static fire testing at Starbase
A recent static fire test by SpaceX at its Starbase facility near Boca Chica caused a loud boom and vibrations felt across South Padre Island and Brownsville. The city confirmed that the noise was due to a routine test conducted on July 10, clarifying that it was not an earthquake, despite some social media speculation. Local businesses, like Yummy's Bistro, reported that the shaking startled customers, leading to panic as some assumed the building might collapse. SpaceX is gearing up for its 13th Starship flight test, which may occur next week, pending final approvals.
WeatherBig plume of Saharan dust coming this way
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) -- A typical early summer stretch of weather for the Valley the next few days. Persistent heat, modest rain chances, and increasing Saharan dust top the list of conditions expected. The weekend forecast looks nice but hot. Saturday and Sunday will be mostly sunny with a few afternoon clouds and a slight
WeatherReports of shaking caused by static fire testing at Starbase
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) -- If you felt a shaking sensation in areas of Cameron County Friday morning, it is because of static fire testing conducted on Super Booster 20 at SpaceX. The testing reportedly caused properties to shake in South Padre Island and Los Fresnos. Louis Balderas, the content creator behind the LabPadre Channel widely
Weather“Heat is no joke”: Warning of a week of dangerous temperatures in the U.S.
Most of the contiguous 48 states in the United States are about to be engulfed by an unusually large, intense, and prolonged heat dome that the National Weather Service (NWS) describes as 'significant and dangerous.' Meteorologists indicated that the heat wave will begin this weekend and last at least a week, with some areas feeling its effects until the end of the month. They noted that in many regions, temperatures will be between 15 and 25 degrees Fahrenheit above normal, even at night. Higher nighttime temperatures are especially harmful to human health and to efforts to contain an active wildfire season. 'This upcoming heat wave does seem quite remarkable,' said Daniel Swain, a climatologist with the University of California's Agriculture and Natural Resources. 'It will be a prolonged, widespread, and high-intensity heat episode affecting millions of people for more than a week.'
WeatherA few showers and your weekend outlook
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) - An umbrella may be your best friend today as we will see scattered showers, some of which could include a brief, heavy downpour leading to localized ponding of water. High temperatures today will be moderated a bit by the additional clouds and rain activity, but still manage to push into the