HARLINGEN — Weather forecasters have issued an alert for residents to be aware of the potential for severe weather tonight in the Rio Grande Valley, with strong winds, large and damaging hail and possible flash flooding all possibilities.
A slow-moving cold front coming into South Texas from the northwest will bring with it the potential for isolated thunderstorms which could be severe in local areas.
From 6 p.m. to midnight, the highest potential for such storms will be north and west of a line between Rio Grande City and Falfurrias.
As the front continues to slow march toward the gulf coast, the next area of concern will be between Rio Grande City and McAllen from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m.
The potential for severe weather then enters an area southeast of a line between McAllen and Raymondville, and this becomes the hot spot between midnight and 6 a.m.
This area includes the cities of La Feria, Harlingen, San Benito and Brownsville.
National Weather Service forecasters say fence and tree damage may occur, along with roof damage to dwellings.
Forecasters say homeowners should bring inside or strap down lightweight objects which are outside, move vehicles into a garage or carport, review safety plans and check the batteries on NOAA weather radios and set them to “alert.”
