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Public SafetyAlligator expert urges caution after sightings across the Valley
Alligator sightings have increased across the Rio Grande Valley, prompting experts to advise caution. Residents in Mission, Port Mansfield, La Joya, and La Grulla have reported encounters with alligators, likely due to recent rainfall that has raised water levels. Jacob Reinbolt, an educator at the South Padre Island Alligator Sanctuary, noted that rising water allows alligators to navigate more freely through local waterways. While wild alligators generally avoid humans, it's important to maintain a safe distance and never feed them. Sightings can be reported to Texas Parks and Wildlife at 512-389-4848.
WeatherI-69E southbound frontage road in Primera closed due to flooding
The southbound frontage road of I-69E in Primera was closed due to flooding but reopened on Tuesday night. The Texas Department of Transportation had issued a flood advisory for the area, which experienced up to three inches of rain. While the southbound road was affected, the northbound frontage road was also impacted but has since been cleared according to TxDOT. The flood advisory was in effect until 6 p.m. on Tuesday.
CommunityFood Bank RGV distributing free produce in Los Indios
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Food Bank RGV is distributing free produce in Los Indios on Wednesday morning. The “pop-up” one-day-only offering will be from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., or until supplies last, at the Diamantina Ortega-Bennett Community Center at 309 E Heywood St. in Los Indios. A picture ID and proof of address are requested. The organization also asks that only two families
Public SafetyCameron County sheriff provides update on jail overcrowding
OLMITO, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Cameron County Sheriff Manuel Trevino on Tuesday provided an update regarding overcapacity at the county jail. The Texas Commission on Jail Standards found the Cameron County jail out of compliance after inspectors determined the facility was over capacity. The state gave the jail until May 15 to reduce the number of inmates
WeatherValley homeowners, businesses affected by May storms can apply for disaster loans
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Qualifying homeowners, renters, and businesses that were affected by severe weather in late April and early May can apply for federal assistance, Gov. Greg Abbott announced on Tuesday. Abbott said the U.S. Small Business Administration approved his request to include the Rio Grande Valley in a federal disaster declaration following the
WeatherRoads in Primera close due to flooding: TxDOT
PRIMERA, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Texas Department of Transportation is alerting drivers about road closures in Primera due to flooding on Tuesday afternoon. Officials with TxDOT report that the northbound I-69E exit to Primera Road and the southbound I-69E frontage road just south of Primera Road are currently closed. Drivers are advised not to drive
Business'Big win for the Valley': McAllen International Airport adds nonstop flights to Phoenix with American Airlines
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The McAllen International Airport has added nonstop daily flights to Phoenix. McAllen International Airport Director of Aviation Jeremy Santascoy said American Airlines has the majority market share of the airport, with seven daily departures to the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport. "So this new connection, which is going to be a daily
PoliticsTexas Secretary of State Jane Nelson Announces Resignation After Three-Year Tenure
Texas Secretary of State Jane Nelson announced her resignation effective July 17, after three years in office. Nelson expressed pride in her accomplishments, including overseeing seven statewide elections with 27 million ballots cast and securing funding for election integrity initiatives. Governor Greg Abbott praised her leadership and service, noting her efforts to enhance Texas's business climate, which saw over 3 million active business filers during her tenure. Nelson, who previously served in the Texas Senate for 30 years, leaves a legacy of modernization within the agency and has represented Texas internationally on numerous occasions.
Public SafetyEnergy drink distributor files motion to dismiss wrongful death lawsuit
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Glazer's Beer and Beverage of Texas, an energy drink distributor accused in the death of a Weslaco cheerleader, has filed a motion to dismiss the wrongful death lawsuit filed against it. The motion to dismiss was filed in the 370th District Court in Hidalgo County on Monday. An attorney representing Glazer's
Public SafetyDPS Shares Safety Tips as Texas Prepares to Host 2026 FIFA World Cup
As Texas gears up to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is urging residents and visitors to prioritize safety. With millions expected to attend, DPS emphasizes the importance of vigilance and proactive measures. Key safety tips include avoiding drinking and driving, eliminating distractions while driving, and being aware of surroundings. Additionally, DPS highlights the need to be alert for signs of human trafficking, especially during large events. Citizens are encouraged to report suspicious activities via iWatchTexas or call 911 if they witness potential trafficking situations.
WeatherFlood advisory issued in Cameron County
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A flood advisory is in effect for Cameron County until 6 p.m. on Tuesday. According to the advisory, minor flooding may occur in low-lying and poor drainage areas. A radar created by our Valley Storm Team shows a cluster of thunderstorms affecting the northwest area of Cameron County and parts of
BusinessSBA Approves Disaster Loan Assistance for Cameron County
On June 2, Governor Greg Abbott announced that the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved disaster loan assistance for Cameron County following severe weather events, including a windstorm on May 9. This federal disaster declaration allows eligible residents, businesses, and nonprofits to apply for low-interest loans to cover damages from tornadoes and severe storms. A Disaster Loan Outreach Center will open at 705 N. Bowie Street in San Benito to assist applicants with the loan process. Residents are also encouraged to report storm-related damages to help local officials assess the situation and secure further assistance.
EducationMission CISD Celebrates the Class of 2026
Mission Consolidated Independent School District (CISD) celebrated the Class of 2026 during its Spring Commencement on May 30, 2026, at Payne Arena in Hidalgo, Texas. Graduates from three high schools were honored for their achievements, personal growth, and leadership. Superintendent Dr. Cris King encouraged them to embrace new opportunities, while Veterans Memorial High School Principal Raul Luna reminded them to honor those who supported them. Students excelled in academics, fine arts, and athletics, with many participating in dual enrollment programs. The ceremony marked a significant transition as graduates prepared to embark on new journeys, equipped with valuable experiences.
WeatherGovernor Announces SBA Assistance for Storm-Impacted South Texas
Governor Greg Abbott announced that the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved federal disaster assistance for South Texas, following severe storms that affected the Rio Grande Valley in late April and early May. The counties of Cameron, Hidalgo, and Willacy are included in this declaration. The SBA will offer low-interest loans to homeowners, renters, and businesses impacted by the storms. A Disaster Loan Outreach Center will open in San Benito to assist applicants with the process. Residents can apply online or contact the SBA for more information on available assistance.
NationalTexas Wins Big: Supreme Court Approves Rio Grande Water Pact
The U.S. Supreme Court has officially approved a settlement regarding the distribution of Rio Grande water among Texas, New Mexico, and Colorado. This decision follows a report from a Special Master recommending the final decree, which aims to ensure fair water allocation. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton emphasized that this agreement is a significant victory for Texas, addressing issues stemming from New Mexico and Colorado's water management practices. The settlement mandates that New Mexico control groundwater pumping to secure Texas's water rights, benefiting local farmers and families who rely on the Rio Grande for their daily needs.
Public SafetyTxDOT: FM 1425 in Mercedes closed for construction, expect delays
MERCEDES, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Texas Department of Transportation announced that a portion of FM 1425 in Mercedes is closed for road construction. According to TxDOT, construction will take place on both the northbound and southbound lanes of FM 1425 between Business 83 and I-2. TxDOT advises drivers to expect delays, plan ahead and take alternative
HealthWho Will Be Exempt from the New Medicaid Work Requirements Next Year?
Pregnant women, parents of young children, veterans with disabilities, and several other groups will be exempt from the new Medicaid work requirements, the Trump administration reported on Monday. The guidance was published by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, meeting the June 1 deadline set in President Donald Trump's 'great and beautiful bill' to explain how states should implement the work rules. Starting January 1, many adults receiving Medicaid will need to work, attend school, or volunteer for at least 80 hours a month to maintain their coverage. The guidance also includes exemptions for 'medically fragile' individuals or those with conditions that significantly limit their ability to work, such as cancer or substance use disorder. However, the guidance does not include an exemption for homeless individuals. States will have discretion to determine which medical conditions qualify for exemptions. Nebraska, which implemented Medicaid work requirements this year, listed the diagnoses that would qualify someone as medically fragile in a nearly 300-page document of medical codes and technical language.
Public SafetyTerror in Mid-Flight: Accused of Attempting to Open Door on Frontier Plane
A passenger on a Frontier Airlines flight from Puerto Rico to Chicago was arrested after allegedly strangling an off-duty employee. Police also claim the suspect attempted to open the emergency exit doors of the plane and tried to enter the cockpit during the incident on the flight heading to Chicago on Sunday. According to the FAA, the pilot was forced to make an emergency landing in Miami, and the passenger was taken into federal custody. Frontier Airlines confirmed that the flight later completed the remainder of its journey to Chicago without incident. A criminal complaint obtained by NBC News alleges that the 51-year-old suspect told flight attendants he wanted to get off the plane and then attempted to open the rear exit door of the aircraft. When a flight attendant stopped him, he moved toward the front of the plane and tried to enter the cockpit, where he was again restrained by a flight attendant. Shortly after, an off-duty Frontier Airlines employee sat next to him on the plane, according to the criminal complaint. Following a scuffle, the suspect allegedly began to strangle the employee before being subdued by several other passengers. At that point, the flight made an emergency landing in Miami, and the suspect was arrested. Videos on social media captured both the incident and its aftermath, with the suspect being restrained by passengers in his seat as the plane descended toward Miami. The FBI is assisting with the investigation, and no further information was available at this time.
Public SafetyEnergy drink distributors seek to dismiss Weslaco cheerleader death lawsuit
The family of Larissa Rodriguez, a Weslaco cheerleader who died in October 2025 due to an enlarged heart linked to caffeine consumption, is amending their lawsuit against energy drink distributors Glazer’s Beer and Beverage, LLC and Glazer’s Beer and Beverage of Texas, LLC. The distributors have filed a motion to dismiss, asserting that the lawsuit is baseless and that the product had appropriate warnings. They argue that Rodriguez misused the drink and that any harm was due to her negligence. The family must prove the product was dangerous, as Texas law protects distributors from liability for defective products. A ruling date on the motion is pending.
EducationTEA assigns conservator to Lyford CISD as part of state accountability process
The Texas Education Agency (TEA) has assigned Dr. Sylvia Ibarra as a conservator to the Lyford Consolidated Independent School District to oversee its turnaround efforts. This appointment, communicated to staff and parents on March 2, is intended as a support measure rather than a punishment. Dr. Ibarra, who also serves as conservator for Monte Alto and La Joya ISDs, will monitor Lyford Middle School's progress. Superintendent Dr. Michelle C. DeWitt highlighted ongoing initiatives to enhance student achievement and accountability, with preliminary data indicating a projected B rating for the middle school in 2026, reflecting significant improvement.