Weather
Weather news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
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
WeatherWednesday, May 27, 2026: Scattered thunderstorms with highs in the 80s
A flood warning for Cameron County has been lifted as of Wednesday afternoon, following the expiration of previous flood advisories. Severe weather has caused delays for Brownsville Metro and Valley Metro RGV services. San Perlita ISD canceled classes for all students and staff due to the stormy conditions. By midday, Magic Valley Electric Cooperative and AEP Texas reported over 2,000 power outages in the Rio Grande Valley, primarily in Cameron County. The Brownsville Public Utilities Board addressed outages affecting more than 5,350 customers by 11 a.m. Residents are encouraged to download the KRGV FIRST WARN 5 Weather app for updates.
WeatherWATCH: TxDOT video shows street flooding on South Padre Island
SOUTH PADRE ISLAND, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The storm that pushed across the entire Rio Grande Valley on Wednesday morning caused street flooding on Padre Boulevard on South Padre Island. The Texas Department of Transportation posted a video of the aftermath on the island, showing rainwater on sidewalks and in parking spaces along the major roadway. Deep
WeatherTexas Water Development Board Outlines Strategic Plan to Secure Future Water Supply
The Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) has outlined a strategic plan to secure the state's future water supply amid projected population growth and potential droughts. The plan anticipates a 53% population increase from 2030 to 2080, while current water supplies may decline by 10%. Irrigation currently consumes the most water, but municipal use is expected to rise significantly. The TWDB recommends over 10,000 projects, with an estimated cost of $174 billion, more than double the previous plan. Key strategies include conservation, reuse, and major reservoir projects to meet future demands.
WeatherFlood advisories issued for Cameron and Hidalgo counties
A flood warning for Cameron County was canceled after initial advisories expired. Severe weather impacted Brownsville Metro and Valley Metro RGV, causing delays. San Perlita ISD dismissed all students and staff on Wednesday morning due to the storms. Thunderstorms moved through the Rio Grande Valley, prompting several warnings that have since ended. As of Wednesday at 12:20 p.m., Magic Valley Electric Cooperative and AEP Texas reported 2,063 outages, primarily in Cameron County. The Brownsville Public Utilities Board identified outages affecting over 5,350 customers, resolving them by 11 a.m. Residents can download the KRGV FIRST WARN 5 Weather app for updates.
WeatherSevere weather leaves hundreds without power in the Valley
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A severe weather alert has caused power outages affecting more than 800 customers, according to AEP Texas and Magic Valley Co-Op outage maps. 9:49 a.m. Within a few minutes, 235 customers in Hidalgo County are now reporting no power, according to the AEP power outage map. In Cameron County, 403 customers
Morning storm activity before hot, dry weekend arrives
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A line of thunderstorms developing across northern Mexico will push east through lunchtime Wednesday, posing a risk for gusty winds and or damaging wind gusts, heavy rainfall, lightning and thunder. While the chance for redevelopment through the afternoon is uncertain, general trends show early activity will transition to mostly cloudy skies
WeatherSevere Weather Advisory Issued for Several Counties
The National Weather Service has issued a severe weather advisory for Cameron County due to dangerous conditions expected in Laguna Vista, Bayview, and Laguna Heights. Forecasts predict heavy rainfall, possible hail in Los Fresnos, and strong wind gusts reaching up to 70 miles per hour. The storm may also bring lightning strikes. Additionally, electrical outages have been reported across the Rio Grande Valley, with AEP and Magic Valley reporting 2,691 outages in Hidalgo County, 248 in Willacy County, and 65 in Cameron County. Authorities urge residents to stay alert for weather updates.
WeatherLaguna Heights man recounts close calls with tornadoes and hurricanes ahead of Facing the Fury special
Arnold Ochoa, a resident of Laguna Heights, shared his experiences with hurricanes and tornadoes, emphasizing the importance of knowing when to evacuate. Having witnessed storms like hurricanes Allen and Dolly, as well as a tornado that struck in May 2023, Ochoa warns that not all homes in Laguna Heights are equipped to withstand future hurricanes. During a recent discussion with the National Weather Service, they highlighted the critical differences between well-constructed homes and those vulnerable to damage. Barry Goldsmith from the Weather Service stressed that even minor improvements can enhance safety. Ochoa's insights will be featured in Channel 5 News' special, Facing the Fury, airing on May 28 at 6:30 p.m.
WeatherSevere thunderstorm watch issued for Starr County
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Starr County will be under a severe thunderstorm watch until 6 a.m. on Wednesday. Additionally, Starr County and the western portions of the Rio Grande Valley are under a slight risk for severe weather on Tuesday night going into Wednesday morning. While forecast models continue to vary in both intensity and
WeatherTexas DPS Urges Residents to Plan Ahead for Hurricane Season
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is urging residents to prepare for the upcoming 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season, which runs from June 1 to November 30. Texans are advised to create emergency plans, including identifying evacuation routes and ensuring vehicles are fueled. Special considerations should be made for individuals with disabilities and pets. An emergency kit should include water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, hygiene items, and important documents. Residents can find more information on emergency preparedness at the Texas Hurricane Center and are encouraged to register with the State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry for additional support during disasters.
WeatherPower outage affects 70 Valley customers: AEP Texas, Magic Valley
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Tuesday morning thunderstorms moving through the Rio Grande Valley have left more than 70 customers without power, according to AEP Texas and Magic Valley Co-Op. 10:15 a.m. As of 10:15 a.m., the AEP Texas and Magic Valley Co-Op maps report that 51 customers in Cameron County are experiencing power outages. In