With the possibility of heavy rain impacting the area next week, the City of Brownsville is taking a proactive approach and preparing the city.

On Friday, August 18, 2023, Stormwater crews which are members of the Engineering and Public Works Department were on Elsa Drive located in the Southmost area of town cleaning out the stormwater drains.

The National Hurricane Center is monitoring the Gulf of Mexico for a possible tropical cyclone that could develop in the Central or Western Gulf of Mexico early next week, August 21, 2023 . Slow development of this system is possible as it drifts westward towards the Texas coast.

Using a vacuum truck equipped with a large hose,  Stormwater crews removed and washed away debris that was located in one of the storm drains in the area. The city has two vacuum trucks and routinely cleans the storm drains.

According to the National Weather Service in Brownsville/Rio Grande Valley, confidence is increasing that the Rio Grande Valley could see some beneficial rainfall and a temporary break in the heat regardless of whether a tropical cyclone develops.

There’s a potential for rainfall Monday through Wednesday and potential for some minor flooding especially in poor drainage areas and where heavier bands develop.

According to the National Weather Service in Brownsville/Rio Grande Valley, most of the Valley could receive 0.5 to 1 inch of rain. Higher values of 2 inches or more are possible in some areas, especially if a tropical cyclone develops.

Authorities recommend that residents take time to revisit their hurricane preparedness plans, and check and stock “stay” or “go” kits. Early preparedness now will ensure little to no rush later.