Weather
Weather news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
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.
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.
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.
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.
WeatherMore rain and thunderstorms through Memorial Day
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Starting Thursday, the 7-day forecast for Harlingen keeps that early-summer feel going, but with a noticeable uptick in storm chances as we move along. Thursday kicks things off hot and mostly sunny, with highs in the mid-90s and a steady southeast breeze around 10 to 15 mph. Humidity will already be in
WeatherBrownsville holding preparedness fair ahead of hurricane season
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The city of Brownsville is holding a preparedness fair ahead of hurricane season. The safety event will take place on Thursday, May 21, from 5:30 to 8 pm. at the Brownsville Events Center. Odee Leal, the director of the Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, said residents will learn how
WeatherValley school districts announce backup graduation plans due to weather
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — With stormy weather expected over the next few days and into the weekend, Rio Grande Valley school districts are announcing alternative schedules for high school graduations. According to the Valley Storm Team, rain chances increase Wednesday night through Thursday, then drop a bit on Friday before popping up again over the
WeatherMore rounds of rain coming our way
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — After the good dousing of rain many areas of the Valley got on Wednesday morning, more rounds of rain and/or thunderstorm activity are expected in the next 24-36 hours. Some of that may include heavy downpours in areas that received rain this morning. Consequently, this has resulted in the area being
WeatherSevere Storm Alert Issued for the Region
The National Weather Service has issued a severe storm alert for South Texas and the border region. The storm system, which originated near Corpus Christi, is moving toward the Rio Grande Valley. Meteorologists report that the most intense activity is focused along the coastal areas, particularly near Brownsville and the Tamaulipas border. Cities like McAllen and Mission are experiencing lighter rain. The system has the potential to produce wind gusts up to 60 miles per hour, hail, and minor damage in some areas. Authorities advise residents to stay updated on weather conditions and take precautions during the storms.
WeatherHidalgo County warns residents to prepare for possible severe weather
Hidalgo County's emergency management coordinator, Ricardo Saldaña, is advising residents to prepare for potential severe weather in the mid-Valley. He highlighted the risks posed by strong winds, which could turn loose objects, particularly trampolines, into hazardous projectiles. Saldaña urged residents to secure trampolines and other items to prevent damage. Additionally, he cautioned against driving on flooded roads and recommended staying informed through reliable sources instead of social media. The county is taking these precautions seriously as they anticipate possible heavy winds that could impact trees and fences.
WeatherThe Storm Prediction Center: Rio Grande Valley at marginal risk for severe weather
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Storm Prediction Center has placed the Rio Grande Valley under a marginal risk for severe weather Tuesday night. This risk indicates that isolated thunderstorms are possible, though they are expected to remain limited in coverage, duration, or intensity. A combination of tropical moisture from the Gulf, daytime heating, and storms breaking apart from a stalled cold front
WeatherTuesday, May 19, 2026: Storms moving in from Mexico could reach the Valley overnight
The Storm Prediction Center has issued a level 1 out of 5 risk for severe thunderstorms in the Rio Grande Valley overnight, with a 30% chance of rain. Strong storms may move in from Nuevo León starting at 7 p.m., but they are expected to weaken before reaching the Valley. Additional thunderstorms could develop west of Laredo and move southward. Key threats include lightning, winds exceeding 58 mph, and heavy rainfall that may cause localized flooding. Hail up to one inch is possible, but the risk of hail is lower than that of strong winds. Stay updated with the KRGV FIRST WARN 5 Weather app.