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Hidalgo County Emergency Management officials are recommending a voluntary self-evacuation for the community of Los Ebanos in Western Hidalgo County. 

Residents are asked to make arrangements to stay with friends or family if able to do so.

A shelter will be available at La Joya High School, located at 604 N. Coyote Drive, at 8 p.m. for those who do not have a place to stay. It will remain open overnight.  

Authorities are asking residents to bring bedding, non-perishable food items and water, medications and sanitary supplies for up to three days. 

If the need arises, a mandatory evacuation may be issued by the County Judge at a later time.

Residents are also advised to stay away from the river bank because of their instability.

Hidalgo County Emergency Management Coordinator Tony Pena said the Rio Grande River rose and widened on Thursday night. 

He said the Los Ebanos could soon be flooed or surrounded by water.

“We are doing this as a precautionary measure so people have time to make preparation while it is still daylight," Peña said. "The river is raging. About 100 yards of the bank was lost to the river since last night on the west side of town. People should heed this warning and get to safety.”