HARLINGEN, Texas — A historic deluge has inundated South Texas, leaving at least four people dead and prompting widespread evacuations, infrastructure failures, and emergency declarations across the Rio Grande Valley. Harlingen recorded an unprecedented 21.5 inches of rainfall over a 48-hour period, surpassing its previous two-day record set in 1912 .
The heaviest rainfall occurred on Thursday, overwhelming drainage systems and transforming streets into rivers. In Harlingen, more than 200 residents were rescued from floodwaters, with another 200 awaiting assistance as of Friday morning . Valley International Airport was forced to close, canceling all flights due to submerged runways .
In neighboring Hidalgo County, Emergency Management Coordinator Ricardo Saldaña reported numerous water rescues and the establishment of shelters for displaced individuals . The city of Alamo alone conducted over 50 water rescues, including assisting a pregnant woman in labor .
Cameron County Judge Eddie Treviño Jr. described the situation as “record-setting, and not in a good way,” noting that all county resources were being utilized to assist residents . Governor Greg Abbott declared a disaster for the region, activating the Texas State Emergency Operations Center at Level II to coordinate aid efforts .
The National Weather Service issued multiple flash flood warnings, labeling the situation as “particularly dangerous” and urging residents to avoid travel unless evacuating . Despite a temporary break in the rain, officials warned that any additional precipitation could quickly exacerbate flooding due to saturated ground conditions .
The flooding has caused significant damage to homes, vehicles, and infrastructure. Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller highlighted the severe impact on agriculture, stating that the floods posed a “devastating tragedy” for farmers and ranchers in the region .
Community efforts have been mobilized to assist those affected. The city of McAllen dispatched Vactor trucks and crews to Harlingen to help remove standing water . The Salvation Army and Red Cross provided shelter and meals to displaced residents, while local officials distributed gift cards to families in need.
This event underscores the persistent threat of flash flooding in South Texas, even as the region enters July, a month when such occurrences typically decrease. Experts caution that while the frequency of flash floods diminishes in July, the risk remains, particularly with the potential for tropical systems to bring heavy rainfall .
As recovery efforts continue, authorities urge residents to remain vigilant and prepared for potential future flooding events.
