Severe Storms Cause Major Flooding in Reynosa and McAllen

REYNOSA, Mexico (March 27, 2025) — Severe storms have prompted significant flooding across Reynosa, Tamaulipas, and McAllen, Texas, following intense rainfall that began early this morning and continued into the afternoon. The National Meteorological Service reported water accumulations reaching up to 30 centimeters in some areas, raising concerns of further flooding. Authorities have issued a moderate level alert (3 out of 4) for excessive rainfall and are predicting an additional 10 to 15 centimeters over the next few hours.

The storms unleashed a torrent of rain that caused the Rhode Canal to overflow, leaving residents in the neighborhoods of Hidalgo and Adolfo López Mateos shocked by the sudden inundation. “This is unlike anything we’ve seen in years,” one local resident commented.

Emergency services in Reynosa received numerous reports of flooded streets, damaged traffic signals, and stranded vehicles. A confirmation from the Tamaulipas government stated that they have activated Plan DN-III-E, which aims to protect affected citizens and coordinate rescue efforts.

By around 3:45 PM, a second storm compounded the chaos, leading to widespread flooding in urban areas. Major roads, underpasses, and parking lots in both Reynosa and McAllen were submerged, trapping several vehicles.

At the McAllen Medical Center, water accumulation led to the failure of a wall, flooding parts of the facility. Patients in the surgery area of the IMSS Clinic 15 in Reynosa were diverted as conditions worsened. “We had to quickly relocate maternity patients to ensure their safety,” said a hospital spokesperson.

The fierce storms have raised alarms among local officials, as the Tamaulipas authorities remain on high alert for potential overflow from drainage systems, channels, and local gullies. The flooding risks prompted public advisories for residents to stay indoors and avoid affected areas.

Local businesses reported difficulties, with workers at maquiladoras in Reynosa expressing frustration over being unable to leave their jobs to protect their vehicles amid safety concerns.

Continuing rainfall is expected to exacerbate flooding and hinder recovery efforts in both cities. Residents and authorities are urged to stay vigilant as the storms persist through Friday.