Hidalgo County, Texas

06/05/2026

Attention Mobile Food Vendors! 🚚

Learn about the changes coming on July 1 to the permit process by watching this video. 👇👇

06/04/2026

Visit the website for Texas Animal Health Commission for the latest information regarding the New World screwworm. They have an interact zone map, information on reporting and prevention tips.

Early detection and reporting is critical! Report all suspected and confirmed cases of NWS immediately.

Report suspected cases in livestock:
TAHC – Veterinarian on Call
1-800-550-8242

TAHC Website: https://www.tahc.texas.gov/emergency/nws.html

06/04/2026

NEWS RELEASE: Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez has issued the following statement regarding the New World screwworm detection in Texas:

“We are closely monitoring the situation involving the New World screwworm recently reported in Zavala County. While there have been no reported cases in Hidalgo County, we are taking this matter seriously and are working closely with our state partners, including the Texas Animal Health Commission and the Texas Department of State Health Services, to ensure we are prepared should a case arise in our region.

We are also in communication with the county judges of Cameron, Starr, and Willacy counties to coordinate efforts and share information as developments occur. Protecting the health of our communities, livestock, and agricultural industry remains a top priority.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the New World screwworm was detected in a three-week-old calf in Zavala County. Federal and state officials have responded quickly by establishing a unified incident command structure, implementing quarantines and movement controls in the affected area, increasing surveillance and trapping efforts, and deploying sterile fly releases to help prevent the spread of the pest.

We encourage livestock owners and residents to remain vigilant and report any concerns involving animals with unusual or worsening wounds, the presence of larvae, or abnormalities around body openings or the navels of newborn animals. Report any suspicious wounds or maggots to your private veterinarian and the Texas Animal Health Commission. Early detection and rapid reporting are critical to preventing the spread of the screwworm.

At this time, there is no threat to the food supply. The USDA has confirmed that New World screwworms do not infest meat, fruits, vegetables, or other food products.

Hidalgo County will continue to work with local, state, and federal partners to monitor the situation and provide timely updates to the public as new information becomes available.”

06/04/2026

Storm Safe with Sunny is underway in Hidalgo County! ☀️⛈️

The Judge's Office visited the Pharr Library for the summer kickoff event. The interactive puppet show teaches children hurricane preparedness through games, videos, hands-on activities, and the adventures of Sunny and Stormy.

Check out the schedule to see Sunny and Stormy at a library near you: https://www.canva.com/design/DAHJfA1XzPw/VeGypMxZ8oSuCOmV12swtQ/view?utm_content=DAHJfA1XzPw&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link&utm_source=viewer

06/02/2026

Hidalgo County has developed the Hidalgo County Hazard Mitigation Action Plan. A draft copy of the Plan is available for the public to review and to provide comments. The purpose of developing the Plan is to minimize or eliminate the long-term risk to human life and property from known hazards that impact the area, such as severe weather, floods, or wildfires, through effective mitigation.

Hidalgo County and the participating jurisdictions are gathering input on the draft plan until June 15, 2026. The draft plan can be viewed on the County and participating jurisdictions' websites. Comments can be emailed to Payton Morris at [email protected].

🔗 VIEW PLAN: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/so4fktdf2qdofy3fyxuca/Hidalgo-County-HMAP-Update-Public-Copy-06.01.2026.pdf?rlkey=lw6qlhv6tz5s02aywvfea3x5b&st=3q10x3cb&dl=0

06/01/2026

🗣️ SocialFest is back and bigger than ever!

The social media conference returns for its second year and will take place November 12-13 at the McAllen Convention Center. 📅

Social media is a powerful tool for businesses to grow, connect, and keep people informed. Hidalgo County believes in the potential of this festival and we are proud to return once again.

06/01/2026

📚🌪️ The “Storm Safe with Sunny” summer schedule is here!

Get your child ready for Hurricane Season by attending one of the puppet show preparedness event that the County Judge's Office is hosting at a library near you this summer.

📚🌪️ The “Storm Safe with Sunny” summer schedule is here!

Along with the Hidalgo County Office of Emergency Management and Hidalgo County, Fire Marshal, we invite families to attend this FREE educational puppet show series designed to help children learn about hurricane preparedness and staying safe during severe weather.

Families can enjoy:
☀️ Interactive puppet characters
📖 Free coloring and activity booklets
🧒 Fun preparedness lessons for children

Performances will take place at libraries throughout Hidalgo County this summer, including evening and Saturday presentations to better accommodate working families.

See the full schedule below and find a presentation near you!

06/01/2026

🌀 Hurricane season officially begins June 1. Now is the time to prepare your emergency kits, review evacuation plans, secure important documents, and stay informed throughout the season.

Hidalgo County residents are encouraged to follow Richard Cortez, Hidalgo County Judge and Hidalgo County Office of Emergency Management for the latest weather updates, emergency information, preparedness tips, and official alerts.

Stay prepared. Stay informed. Stay safe, Hidalgo County. 🌧⚠