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Data: Migrant encounters on Southwest border up 11% in May
By Sandra Sanchez at KTSM 9 News (NBC)
· June 19, 2026
· 1 min read
The number of migrants encounted by U.S. Border Patrol agents was nearly 10,000 in May, up 11% from April, and the Rio Grande Valley Sector had the most trying to cross the border into the United States, new data released Friday shows.
Key takeaway Border Patrol agents was nearly 10,000 in May, up 11% from April, and the Rio Grande Valley Sector had the most trying to cross the border into the United States, new data released Friday shows.
Why this matters in The El Paso
The recent uptick in migrant encounters on the Southwest border has significant implications for El Paso , given its proximity to the international boundary. As the number of migrants attempting to cross into the United States continues to rise, local resources and infrastructure may be strained. The 11% increase in encounters from April to May suggests that the trend of growing migrant flows is likely to continue, potentially placing additional pressure on El Paso's social services, law enforcement, and border management systems. The fact that the Rio Grande Valley Sector saw the most attempted crossings may not directly impact El Paso, but it indicates a broader shift in migration patterns that could eventually affect the city. El Paso residents should be aware of the potential consequences of increased migrant flows, including possible delays at ports of entry and increased demands on local non-profit organizations that provide aid to migrants.
About this story
Original reporting by KTSM 9 News (NBC) . The El Paso surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KTSM 9 News (NBC) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: June 19, 2026 ·
Source: KTSM 9 News (NBC) ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? The number of migrants encounted by U.S. Border Patrol agents was nearly 10,000 in May, up 11% from April, and the Rio Grande Valley Sector had the most trying to cross the border into the United States, new data released Friday shows.
When was this published? This article was first published on June 19, 2026 by KTSM 9 News (NBC) and curated for The El Paso readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Sandra Sanchez at KTSM 9 News (NBC). To learn more about how The El Paso selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The El Paso, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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