Tropical storm warnings and a flood threat for the RGV

RIO GRANDE VALLEY, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Francine is powering up to become a category one hurricane overnight off the shores of Northeast Mexico, just south of the Valley.

This storm will parallel our coast, through Tuesday, well offshore before it scoots to the northeast and sets a course for Louisiana.

A tropical storm watch is in effect for inland Cameron and Willacy counties while a tropical storm warning is in effect for coastal Cameron and Willacy.

Meanwhile, everyone along the coast of the Rio Grande Valley should prepare for tropical storm force conditions overnight, Tuesday morning and Tuesday afternoon.

This means winds from 39 to 74 mph and bouts of heavy rain. Odds are the winds will top out near 50 mph but the rain could total 4 or more inches leading to some flooding. Bands of heavy rain should be expected as far west as Harlingen.

A flood watch is in effect for all of Cameron and Willacy counties.

The heaviest rain which will happen overnight and tomorrow, should remain east of Highway 77 to the coast.