Combes Residents Rebuilt After Historic Flood Event
The small community of Combes in Cameron County is still grappling with the aftermath of a historic flood event that occurred in March 2025. Having left significant damage across the Rio Grande Valley, residents find themselves in various stages of rebuilding their lives. While some families choose to remain and repair, others are opting to leave due to the challenges of recurring floods and persistent mold issues.
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
The catastrophic flood that inundated the Valley earlier this year resulted in entire neighborhoods submerged under several feet of water, with Combes being one of the hardest-hit areas. For many homeowners, the ordeal of dealing with waterlogged properties is not new, yet remains daunting. The financial strain of repeated repairs has forced several residents to reconsider their future in the area.
Maria Hernandez, a Combes resident who has decided to move, shared her frustrations at witnessing flood after flood damage her home. “We’re already looking for another home. The house has been flooded three times,” she stated, explaining that the mold inside the cabinets has become unmanageable. “I don’t want to deal with having to rebuild again.”
Others in the community are rallying, fortified with flood insurance that aids in salvaging their homes. Jose Luis, another local resident, expressed gratitude for the available resources: “Thanks to my insurance, we’re able to replace the sheetrock and other fixtures without having to shoulder the entire financial burden.” For many, these insurance payouts are crucial lifelines that allow them to start anew.
Community Challenges and City Support
City officials in Combes have been proactive in addressing community needs post-flooding. Extra trash pick-up services have been scheduled to manage the debris from damaged homes, an effort that costs the city between $4,000 and $5,000. An official from Combes emphasized the need for residents to remain informed. “We encourage residents to watch for text messages from the city, announcing deadlines for bulk trash pick-up,” he noted.
The financial and logistical challenges faced by the city reflect the broader strain natural disasters place on local infrastructure. Mayor Sylvia Gutierrez highlighted the importance of collaboration and community engagement in these efforts, stating, “It is our responsibility to support our residents every step of the way as they rebuild their lives.”
Persistent Warnings and Future Preparedness
As the troubling memory of the March floods lingers, the threat of future natural disasters is a constant undercurrent in the community consciousness. With hurricane season fast approaching, many residents of Combes and the wider Rio Grande Valley remain vigilant.
Environmental experts are advocating for improved infrastructure and better urban planning to reduce future flooding risks. Dr. Raul Zamora, an environmental scientist at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, suggests the implementation of better water drainage systems as a preventive measure. “Mitigation strategies are imperative to protecting Valley residents from recurring natural disasters,” he emphasized.
Related Challenges Across the Valley
The challenges of living in flood-prone areas are not unique to Combes. In nearby La Joya, a tragic house fire destroyed a family-of-six’s home, further compounding the adversities of life in the Valley. The confluence of these events underscores the fragile balance communities must navigate amidst climate uncertainty and economic pressure.
The broader implications of these recurring incidents affect the entire Rio Grande Valley. With increasing environmental risks, the pattern of devastation and recovery could have long-term socio-economic impacts on the region, affecting everything from property values to population growth patterns.
Encouraging Community Engagement and Support
Despite these adversities, the sense of community and mutual support remains strong in Combes and its neighboring areas. Initiatives such as the Pump Patrol program invite residents to actively participate in monitoring fuel prices as a way to foster a collaborative community spirit and collective welfare.
Moreover, local sports achievements and programs help lift community morale, with figures like David Zuniga from Pioneer High School and Maya Monreal from Harlingen South making headlines for their athletic accomplishments.
Resources for the Community
The KRGV website stands as a valuable resource for Valley residents, offering up-to-date news, weather forecasts, and community program information. Additionally, the KRGV FIRST WARN 5 Weather app is recommended for real-time weather updates, ensuring that residents remain informed and prepared for future weather events.
As Combes continues its path to recovery, the resilience and tenacity of its residents remain evident. The community’s journey underscores the importance of preparedness, support systems, and decisive action in the face of natural calamities, as the Rio Grande Valley collectively braces for what lies ahead.
