Reynosa, Tamaulipas, faced a devastating storm on March 27, 2025, that led to severe flooding across various neighborhoods, overflowing canals, and vehicles being swept away by powerful currents. The heavy rains began in the afternoon and quickly inundated main roads, leaving many residents stranded and in desperate situations.
According to local authorities, the Municipal Civil Protection reported that they were assessing the damage caused by the rainfall and coordinating with the Secretariat of National Defense (SEDENA) to implement the Plan DN-III, a military initiative designed to assist those affected by natural disasters. The rain intensified throughout the afternoon, creating hazardous conditions across the city.
At the intersection of Fuente de Diana and Bulevar Hidalgo, in front of Plaza Real, numerous vehicles were trapped in the rising water. In the Las Ceibas sector, water levels reached as high as one meter, further complicating rescue efforts. Similarly, in Villa Florida Sector B, vehicles were stranded due to the extreme flooding.
The Desalinador canal, which runs parallel to the Anzalduas in the Ribereña area, also overflowed, exacerbating the already critical situation. Reports indicated that several vehicles were submerged in the Jarachina Norte neighborhood, and the Dren de las Mujeres overflowed due to the excessive accumulation of water.
Areas most affected by the flooding included Bulevar de La Cima to Vista Hermosa, Riberas del Carmen, Cumbres, Aztlán, Loma Real, San Valentín, Juárez 5, Bugambilias, La Cañada (Blvd Inglaterra), Aquiles Serdán, Territorial Campestre, Colonia Módulo 2000, Riveras de Rancho Grande, Villa Florida Sector B, Fraccionamiento Las Camelias, Puertas del Sol, Leyes de Reforma, Las Ceibas, Nuevo México, Las Mitras, Colonia El Maestro, Fraccionamiento Reynosa, La Escondida, Las Delicias, and Balcones.
In response to the emergency, the local government deployed various security and emergency services to assist residents. They also issued recommendations for public safety, advising citizens to avoid crossing flooded streets and to stay away from exposed electrical wires and installations. Mayor Carlos Peña Ortiz instructed the Coordination of Civil Protection and Firefighters to remain vigilant due to a storm system approaching from the northwest that was expected to bring further adverse weather conditions.
The government warned of potential hailstorms and winds exceeding 60 kilometers per hour, further increasing the risk of damage. Hundreds of families have lost their homes, and many neighborhoods are rendered inaccessible due to the flooding. The local government has been proactive in providing support and ensuring that citizens are informed about the ongoing situation.
The Plan DN-III, which was activated by SEDENA in response to the crisis, is a military operational tool designed to assist populations affected by natural disasters. First implemented in 1966 in Tamaulipas and Veracruz following the overflow of the Río Pánuco, this plan outlines the general guidelines for the army and air force to provide timely and effective assistance to those in need.
As the storm continued to wreak havoc, reports emerged of severe weather conditions also impacting McAllen, Texas. The National Weather Service issued flash flood warnings for McAllen, Mission, and Hidalgo, effective until 6:30 p.m. Central Time on the same day. Significant rainfall caused flooding in areas like the La Plaza Mall parking lot, with videos showing water covering half of some vehicles. Authorities in McAllen warned residents of the possibility of tornadoes due to the strong winds accompanying the storm.
The situation remains critical as emergency services work tirelessly to assist those affected. Many residents are seeking refuge in shelters, trying to escape the relentless flooding. The local government has emphasized the importance of staying informed through official channels, as the storm continues to pose a risk to public safety.
As the rainfall persists, the potential for further flooding increases, putting additional strain on already overwhelmed emergency services. Residents are advised to heed warnings and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their families.
In the coming days, the government will continue to monitor the situation closely, providing updates and assistance as needed. The resilience of the community is being tested, but efforts are underway to ensure that those affected receive the support they need during this challenging time.
