Hurricane Preparedness
It doesn’t take a Category 5 to change everything. Ask anyone who’s lived through a serious tropical storm, and they’ll tell you — when the water rises and the power goes out and the roads close, it doesn’t matter what a storm’s official name was. What matters is whether your family was ready.
That’s the driving force behind the WCND’s upcoming community event, aptly titled “It Only Takes One.” Planned for the Port Mansfield community and open to all Willacy County residents, this special gathering is being designed as a comprehensive resource: expert speakers, actionable information, and real support for families and property owners who want to be better prepared for whatever this storm season brings.
WCND Director Oscar Montoya is building a coalition of emergency management professionals, county leaders, and storm weather experts to lead the event — because preparation isn’t a one-agency job. It’s a community effort.
“It’s not just about hurricanes. Major flooding can come from tropical storms, pop-up storms, cold fronts — you name it. As a coastal county, Willacy County needs to consider the effects of these storms combined with coastal water surges, and the effects on utilities in our more remote communities. There are reports this year of potential heavy rainfall, mostly affected by a heavy El Niño weather pattern that may form by the third quarter of 2026. When it comes to coastal weather, it only takes one storm to have a devastating effect on our community.”
— Oscar Montoya, Director, Willacy County Navigation District
The event isn’t just about storm information — it’s about connection. Director Montoya is also actively evaluating the WCND’s current community alert system, exploring improvements that would ensure residents receive timely, accurate weather notices even in the most remote corners of Willacy County.
“The WCND wants to support weather and event notices to our Willacy County residents. Director Montoya is working on a plan that should help our community get the information they need during weather-related disruptions. Our WCND board is happy to see these programs get implemented.”
— Alberto Treviño, Commissioner Precinct 4, Willacy County Navigation District
“Preparedness saves lives — it’s that simple. Events like ‘It Only Takes One’ give our residents the tools and confidence to protect their families before disaster strikes. I encourage every Willacy County household to attend and take this seriously. The time to prepare is now, not when a storm is already in the Gulf.”
— Lefty Cavasos, Commissioner Precinct 1, Willacy County Navigation District
Details on the date, time, and location of the “It Only Takes One” preparedness event will be shared as they are finalized. The WCND is hoping for a strong community turnout — because in Willacy County, we look out for each other. Make plans now to be there.
