Gov. Abbott declares disaster in flood-ravaged Valley

Gov. Greg Abbott on Saturday issued a disaster declaration for the Rio Grande Valley following an unexpected severe thunderstorm that dropped record rainfall across the region, causing widespread flooding.

In a Facebook post, Abbott said the declaration includes Cameron, Hidalgo, Starr and Willacy counties.

Valley residents were caught off guard Thursday as heavy rain hit the region.

On Friday, stranded vehicles were strewn throughout the area. Flooding remained prevalent throughout the Mid-Valley and areas of Cameron County on Saturday.

Abbott said in his declaration that the rainfall and flooding impacted homes, business and the agricultural industry.

“Texas continues to support local communities in South Texas impacted by heavy rainfall and flash flooding,” Abbott said in a statement.

He said the declaration is meant to help local officials respond to the deluge. The governor also thanked first responders and emergency management teams.

“Texans are urged to monitor the weather, make an emergency plan, and heed the guidance of state and local officials to keep themselves and their loved ones,” Abbott said.

Attempts to reach the National Weather Service in Brownsville to ask if the agency had updated rain totals on Saturday weren’t immediately returned.

Abbott’s declaration follows Valley cities and counties issuing their own local disaster declarations Friday.

Hidalgo County officials reported there were as many as three deaths as a result of the storm. Officials said little is known about those fatalities thus far, only that they occurred during “law enforcement efforts.”

Meanwhile, cities, counties and first responders remain in cleanup mode with municipalities offering towing services for stranded vehicles.

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