Strong to severe thunderstorms possible through Thursday night

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Plenty of moisture is pooling up in our area ahead of a cold front, which will be providing plenty of fuel for rain and thunderstorm activity today through tonight.

We can expect to see scattered showers and possibly thunderstorms as we head through the day, especially this afternoon.

Then, as the cold front approaches late tonight, computer models indicate a large line of thunderstorms moving into the Rio Grande Valley, some of which could be severe. The National Storm Prediction Center places the Valley in a "slight risk" category for severe weather today into tonight. Should severe thunderstorms develop, they could include large hail, strong winds gusting over 60 miles an hour, heavy rain, and lots of lightning. Chances of any tornadic activity remain very small.

Rainfall estimates from these storms indicate we could see up to 2.5 inches of rain in some areas. Of course, there may be pockets that get more than that. Low-lying areas could see some standing water, and some minor street flooding will be possible with any downpours.

The good new is, once we get the cold front pushed through the Valley tonight, rain activity will taper off in the morning and we should see some clearing during Friday afternoon. Drier air will be pushing in setting up great weather for MXLAN in McAllen and a Mother's Day weekend that should be great for any outdoor fun.