HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Grab your jackets and your umbrellas! A rainy cold front is blowing back through Houston, dropping temps from the 70s to the 50s as it pushes toward the Gulf Coast.
Rain totals will generally average less than a quarter of an inch with this round of rain. The rain should be gone for the evening commute, and the sun may even try to make a brief appearance before it goes down for the night.
Temperatures in most of Southeast Texas will cool off into the upper 30s and low 40s by sunrise, but the freeze line could get really close to our northernmost communities from College Station to Huntsville to Livingston.
What can we expect for Valentine’s Day?
It will be a seasonably chilly day with a low in the 40s and a high in the 60s. There’s only a 20% chance for a shower, so those outdoor picnics will likely be rain-free!
How is the weekend shaping up?
Another cold front is expected to blow in Saturday night with a 60% chance of showers and thunderstorms. It will warm to near 80 Saturday afternoon before the front arrives in the evening. Sunday will be sunny but chilly with a low in the 30s and a high in the 50s. The freeze line could make it into our northern counties, and when you factor in the wind, it will feel like it’s in the 20s around sunrise!
Could temperatures get back to freezing in Houston?
That’s not currently in our 10 day forecast, but it will be a close call on the morning of Presidents Day. We are currently predicting the temperatures to drop to 35 on Monday morning, so you might consider protecting cold sensitive plants over the weekend.
Universal Pictures has unveiled the full trailer for the highly anticipated live-action adaptation of “How to Train Your Dragon,” set to hit theaters on June 13, 2025. Directed by Dean DeBlois, who helmed the original animated trilogy, this reimagining promises to bring the beloved story of Hiccup and Toothless to life with stunning visual effects and a talented cast.
Familiar Tale with Enhanced Visuals
The trailer showcases many iconic moments from the 2010 animated film, recreated with breathtaking live-action and state-of-the-art visual effects. Fans will recognize key scenes, including:
Young Vikings learning to fight dragons in the training ring
Hiccup’s first encounter with Toothless
The emotional bonding moment between boy and dragon
Exhilarating first flights over Berk’s stunning landscapes
DeBlois has taken care to recreate these “iconic” scenes almost shot-for-shot, ensuring that fans of the original will feel a sense of familiarity and nostalgia.
Expanded Mythology and New Elements
While the trailer suggests a close adaptation of the original film’s plot, DeBlois has indicated that the live-action version will explore character relationships and mythology in greater depth. The director has hinted at an “expanded mythology” for this adaptation, revealing new aspects of Berk and its dragon-fighting traditions.
Star-Studded Cast
The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast that brings the beloved characters to life. Mason Thames takes on the lead role of Hiccup, while Nico Parker portrays Astrid. Gerard Butler reprises his role as Stoick the Vast, maintaining continuity with the animated trilogy. Nick Frost joins the cast as the lovable Gobber the Belch, and Julian Dennison rounds out the group as Fishlegs. This talented mix of rising stars and established actors promises to deliver compelling performances that honor the spirit of the original characters while bringing fresh energy to the live-action adaptation
Visual Spectacle
The trailer highlights the film’s impressive visual effects, particularly in bringing Toothless and other dragons to life alongside human actors. The flying sequences, a hallmark of the animated films, appear to have been given special attention, promising thrilling aerial action for audiences.
A Beloved Franchise Reborn
“How to Train Your Dragon” has captivated audiences since 2010, with the animated trilogy grossing over $1.6 billion worldwide. This live-action adaptation seeks to capture the magic that made the originals so beloved while introducing the story to a new generation. As the June 13, 2025 release date approaches, anticipation continues to build for this ambitious reimagining of a modern animated classic. With its combination of familiar storytelling, cutting-edge visuals, and expanded mythology, “How to Train Your Dragon” is poised to be one of the most exciting film events of 2025.
HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — We have a lot going on with the weather today — fog, rain, and up and down temperatures.
The main takeaway — take an umbrella, stay weather aware with the threat of thunderstorms today, and take a jacket with you to work even if it’s not currently chilly outside.
Showers and storms roll in for Tuesday as the next front moves into Southeast Texas.
Let’s start with the fog! We are seeing some spots where fog is dense so make sure you take it slow on the roads. We should see fog lifting in the mid morning hours.
Rain should become more widespread in the mid to late morning hours and we could continue to see scattered showers and storms into the afternoon. I’m not anticipating severe storms, but strong storms could pop up. We could be looking at a small hail threat. Also, we are watching for heavy rain and the potential for some storms to train… Isolated street flooding will be possible with the better chance for heavier rainfall totals north of I-10.
Temperatures… The same front that moved in yesterday has now lifted to the north as a warm front. It’s already creating quite the variance in temperatures in SE Texas. That same front is now expected to move south today and could bring in cooler temperatures for the afternoon for parts of the area. Some of us could hit high temps in the low 70s by mid to late morning and then could see temperatures drop into the 60s by the afternoon. Now this is not the big push of colder air we’ve been waiting on… that will come Wednesday afternoon/evening cooling us down Thursday!
I heard there are more cold fronts in the forecast?
Our front that moved through as a cool front Monday, lifted as a warm front overnight into Tuesday morning. That same front could drop back down as a cold front Tuesday cooling down parts of SE Texas Tuesday afternoon. It will lift again Tuesday night before getting a good push through the area Wednesday afternoon/evening. Then the next weather system and cold front is expected next weekend, but this time the front should move quicker though Houston. Showers and storms are possible Saturday evening followed by another cool down Sunday and Monday. And the active stretch could continue all the way through next week with another cold front possible next Tuesday.
How much rain are we expected this week?
Much of Southeast Texas could pick up around 1 to 3 inches of rain this week on average. Some locations could pick up more or less depending on where some of the heavier shows and storms develop. And we’ll take it as we haven’t recorded a drop of rain in the city of Houston since the start of the month.
What about freezing temperatures?
At this time there are no freezing temperatures in the forecast for Southeast Texas but that doesn’t mean we wont have some chilly mornings later this week thanks to some of those cold fronts. Thursday morning, you’ll need a coat and scarf once again with morning lows in the upper 30s or low 40s. And looking ahead, we could have a few more chilly mornings on Friday and President’s Day.
In a controversial move, the body of water historically known as the Gulf of Mexico is now listed as the Gulf of America for users accessing Google Maps within the United States.
The change comes after an executive order issued by President Donald Trump, emphasizing “American greatness” in geographical naming conventions.
Google confirmed the update, citing its long-standing policy of aligning place names with official government designations.
“People using Maps in the US will see ‘Gulf of America,’ while users in Mexico will see ‘Gulf of Mexico.’ Others will see both names,” the company stated on Monday.
This is not the first renaming effort stemming from Trump’s executive actions. A similar attempt was made to restore Mount McKinley’s name after former President Barack Obama changed it to Denali in 2015, honoring the mountain’s indigenous roots. However, as of Tuesday, Google Maps had yet to reflect the reversal of that decision.
Trump’s executive order criticized Obama’s renaming of Denali, calling it “an affront to President McKinley’s life, his achievements, and his sacrifice.” The order drew comparisons between McKinley and Trump, highlighting their shared views on tariffs and nationalism.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) also acknowledged the changes, stating that it was updating official data and charts to reflect the Gulf of America renaming. The US Coast Guard, responsible for securing the nation’s maritime borders, has begun using the new name in its public notices as well.
The renaming of such significant landmarks continues to spark debate over history, heritage, and political influence in geographic designations. While supporters view these changes as a patriotic reclaiming of American identity, critics argue they erase cultural and historical ties that extend beyond the nation’s borders.
A road rage incident on U.S. Highway 290 near Jones Road in Jersey Village left one man injured after he was shot in the leg, according to ABC13.
Authorities are investigating the case and seeking public assistance in identifying the suspect.
The Incident
The shooting occurred on the morning of January 28 while Jesus Jiminez was on his way to work. He told ABC13 that a black sedan began driving erratically and attempted to merge into his lane. “He almost hit me,” Jiminez recalled. “Later down 290, I look over, and he is right there, and I was just like, ‘Hey, what were you thinking?'”
Jiminez said his simple gesture provoked a violent response from the other driver. “I remember feeling the bullets fly past my head,” he said.
The gunman fired multiple shots into Jiminez’s truck, striking him in the leg. Images of his vehicle show several bullet holes, highlighting how close he came to a far worse outcome. “As soon as I saw the gun, I just froze,” Jiminez said. “I put my head down and just tried to drive as straight as possible.”
Seeking Medical Help
After being shot, Jiminez managed to drive to a nearby Exxon gas station, where he realized the extent of his injury. “I call my brother. He comes, he puts a belt as a tourniquet on my leg, and we call 911,” he said.
Getting the bullet removed proved challenging due to its location. After nearly two weeks, Jiminez found a surgeon willing to perform the procedure. The injury has significantly impacted his ability to work. “I do roofing, so I have to go up a ladder. I am obviously going to need this to heal,” he told ABC13.
Ongoing Investigation
The shooter remains at large, and Jiminez admitted that fear and anxiety have made it difficult for him to drive again. “Honestly, I am just not in the right mind really since this happened, and I am too scared to drive at all,” he said.
While Jiminez did not get a clear look at the suspect, he recalled seeing a woman in the passenger seat of the black sedan. Unfortunately, the shooting occurred in an area with few businesses, limiting available surveillance footage. Authorities are urging witnesses, particularly those with dash cam footage, to come forward.
The Jersey Village Police Department continues to investigate the case, hoping for leads that will bring the shooter to justice.
A fatal collision at Scottsdale Airport on Monday afternoon resulted in one confirmed death and multiple injuries, according to authorities.
Scottsdale Fire Department Chief Folio provided an update during a press briefing, stating that emergency responders worked into the evening to extricate the deceased victim from the wreckage.
Casualties and Emergency Response
Two individuals were critically injured and transported to local trauma centers for treatment. Another victim was taken to a nearby hospital, while a fourth declined medical assistance at the scene.
Authorities described the site as an “active scene,” emphasizing ongoing efforts to recover and assist those affected. Chief Folio confirmed that one victim was declared “dead on arrival,” with responders focusing on “extricate and save” operations.
Jet Pros, LLC Issues Statement
Jet Pros, LLC, the operator of a Gulfstream jet impacted by the crash, clarified that there were no passengers aboard their parked aircraft at the time of the incident. While there were no reported injuries on the Gulfstream, the company confirmed external damage to the aircraft.
“We are cooperating fully with airport authorities and relevant agencies as they conduct a thorough review of the situation,” the company stated, extending condolences to the victims’ families and expressing gratitude to emergency responders for their swift actions.
Airport Operations and Official Reactions
All flights at Scottsdale Airport were initially suspended following the crash. The facility, located in Maricopa County, Arizona, resumed operations approximately six hours later.
Scottsdale Mayor Lisa Borowsky issued a statement offering condolences and support to those affected.
“On behalf of the city of Scottsdale, we offer our deepest condolences to those involved in the accident and for those who have been taken to our trauma center for treatment. We will keep all affected by this tragedy in our prayers.”
She also commended the first responder community for their quick action and service during the emergency.
Investigation Underway
As of Monday evening, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has taken over the investigation. Authorities are working to determine the cause of the crash, and further details are expected as the inquiry progresses.
This remains a developing story. Updates will follow as more information becomes available on Que Onda Magazine.
The limited-time Season of the Force event returns to Disneyland Park in Anaheim, Calif., March 28 through May 11, 2025 with a new nighttime experience in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, a first-time visitor to Batuu, new food and beverage, merchandise and more. Pictured here, a shadowy visitor will appear on Batuu for a limited time. Wearing what seem to be Jedi robes, there are rumors it might be the legendary Luke Skywalker. (Christian Thompson/Disneyland Resort)
Attention all Star Wars fans and intergalactic travelers—the highly anticipated Season of the Force is making its triumphant return to Disneyland Park!
From March 28 to May 11, 2025, visitors can immerse themselves in thrilling new experiences, exclusive merchandise, themed food and beverages, and epic attractions inspired by a galaxy far, far away. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and beyond!
New and Returning Experiences
A Spectacular Nighttime Projection Show: “Shadows of Memory: A Skywalker Saga”
One of the most exciting additions this year is the debut of “Shadows of Memory: A Skywalker Saga.” This mesmerizing nighttime projection show will illuminate the spires of Batuu with breathtaking visuals, taking guests on an emotional journey through the most iconic moments of the Skywalker legacy. Accompanied by an unforgettable score featuring John Williams’ legendary compositions, this is a must-see event for any Star Wars enthusiast.
A Mysterious Visitor Arrives in Batuu
For the first time ever, a shadowy figure cloaked in Jedi robes will be roaming Batuu. Could it be the legendary Luke Skywalker? Visitors will have the chance to uncover the mystery while encountering other familiar faces from the Star Wars universe.
“Fire of the Rising Moons”—A Stunning Fireworks Experience
On select nights, visitors can witness “Fire of the Rising Moons,” a dazzling fireworks display set to the iconic Star Wars soundtrack. Guests can enjoy this unique view of Disneyland’s fireworks show from multiple locations in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, including the Black Spire Spaceport, the TIE Echelon docking platform, and the speeder garage. Enhancing the experience, MagicBand+ will light up with colorful effects and vibrations in sync with the show.
Ride Overlays and Thrilling Adventures
Hyperspace Mountain Returns!
Space Mountain transforms into Hyperspace Mountain once again, offering an adrenaline-pumping Star Wars adventure through an intense intergalactic battle. Rebel X-wing starfighters and Imperial TIE fighters fill the sky as guests dodge laser blasts and navigate the chaos of space combat. This limited-time overlay runs through May 11.
Star Tours – The Adventures Continue
Jump aboard a Starspeeder and embark on an all-new journey featuring characters and locations from Disney+ hits “Ahsoka,” “Andor,” and “The Mandalorian.” With over 250 different storyline combinations, no two rides are the same—so be ready for unexpected surprises!
Live Your Own Star Wars Story
Season of the Force is the perfect time to step into the Star Wars universe! Fly the Millennium Falcon, take on the First Order in “Rise of the Resistance,” and interact with beloved characters throughout Galaxy’s Edge. Adventure awaits at every turn.
Exclusive Star Wars Merchandise
Limited-Edition Collectibles and Apparel
Gear up with a variety of themed merchandise available throughout Disneyland Resort, including:
Create Your Own Headbands with plush attachments featuring Yoda, R2-D2, Ewoks, Darth Vader, and Stormtroopers.
Her Universe Retro Collection by Ashley Eckstein, launching exclusively at The Star Trader.
Boba Fett Sports Jersey and Resistance-themed apparel.
Limited-edition Hyperspace Mountain T-shirt, only available during the event.
Beginning May 4, a special “Reclaimed and Reforged” storyline will be introduced, allowing guests to build custom lightsabers using salvaged materials from across the galaxy. Advanced reservations are highly recommended for this unforgettable hands-on experience.
Droid Depot – Build Your Own Droid
Design and construct a custom BB-series, C-series, or R-series droid to accompany you on your adventures. No reservations are needed—just stop by and start building!
Galactic Food, Drinks, and Novelty Collectibles
Fuel up with limited-time offerings inspired by the Star Wars universe, including:
Pi-Co Punch – A tropical mix of pineapple juice, coconut milk, and lime, garnished with pineapple chunks and lotus root.
Wookiee Cookie – A chewy, chocolate-chip treat available at select locations.
Toydaria Swirl – Green milk with chile-lime seasoning and mango jellies.
Fried Chicken Baos – Crispy chicken bao buns topped with sweet chili sauce, scallion salad, and cucumber slices.
Droid Parts Premium Vessel – A popcorn bucket with a Star Wars twist, featuring butter popcorn and Crait Red Salt.
Darth Vader Premium Mug – A collector’s item that comes with a choice of beverage.
More Star Wars Fun Beyond Season of the Force
Looking for more exclusive Star Wars experiences? Don’t miss Disneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite, an after-hours event packed with entertainment, character encounters, and themed attractions. The special event takes place on select nights from April 8 to May 6, 2025, and tickets are now available for purchase online.
May the Force Be With You!
Season of the Force 2025 promises to be bigger and better than ever, offering thrilling rides, immersive experiences, exclusive merchandise, and mouthwatering galactic treats. Whether you’re a Jedi Knight, a Sith Lord, or just a casual traveler in the galaxy, this limited-time event is an unmissable celebration of all things Star Wars.
Stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine for the latest updates, and may the Force be with you on your next adventure at Disneyland Park!
HOUSTON (Que Onda Magazine) – Recent test results have revealed elevated levels of toxic chemicals in Houston’s Fifth Ward, with particular concern surrounding the Julia C. Hester House, a vital community center that provides afterschool programs and meals for seniors.
Environmental testing conducted under the supervision of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) detected dioxin, a known carcinogen, at five times the minimum screening level in areas around Hester House, according to Harris County Attorney Christian Menefee.
“It’s not a cause for alarm, but it should be a cause for concern,” Menefee told Que Onda Magazine “Families, children, and our seniors use this land daily, and we need the EPA to determine the full extent of the issue.”
“More testing needs to be done; we need the EPA to continue the testing,” Menefee added. “There’s no way we can fix the problem if we don’t understand what’s happening in the soil.”
The discovery adds to long-standing environmental concerns in the nearby Kashmere Gardens neighborhood, which has been identified as a cancer cluster linked to creosote contamination from a former rail yard operated by Southern Pacific, now Union Pacific, until the 1980s. Creosote, a wood preservative, has been associated with cancer risks and groundwater contamination.
Last year, Union Pacific, in coordination with the EPA, began testing soil and water vapor in the area as part of an ongoing investigation into potential contamination from the former Houston Wood Preserving Works site. The latest results show dioxin concentrations at Hester House reaching 220 parts per trillion (ppt) in some areas—well above the EPA’s residential screening level of 48 ppt, which assumes long-term exposure by young children.
While the EPA has emphasized that these levels do not pose an immediate health risk, further sampling and evaluation are planned to determine appropriate next steps. The agency noted that dioxin exposure primarily becomes hazardous through prolonged contact or ingestion. No additional testing is required at other nearby public areas, including Boyce Dorian Park, according to EPA assessments.
In response, Union Pacific released a statement asserting that nearly all detected chemicals from their testing remain below EPA’s conservative screening levels. The company also emphasized that dioxins are commonly found in industrialized areas and that identifying a definitive source requires further investigation.
“Union Pacific, in collaboration with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, has completed the most extensive soil testing related to the former Houston Wood Preserving Works site in the Fifth Ward. Initial results from schools and public properties near the site show nearly all detected chemicals below EPA’s conservative screening levels. Additional EPA testing at Julia C. Hester House will focus on dioxins found above screening levels. Dioxins are commonly found in densely populated areas with a history of industrial activity, and it is premature to identify a source before the entire testing and evaluation process is completed.”
Community advocates and local officials continue to press for swift action. The EPA’s ongoing human health risk assessment, expected to take several months, will play a crucial role in determining long-term remediation efforts and any necessary public health interventions.
As Texas lawmakers reconvene, property tax relief has emerged as a key issue, with Gov. Greg Abbott designating it a legislative priority.
Abbott has cited an affordability crisis, emphasizing that rising property taxes are straining homeowners across the state. With a $24 billion budget surplus, state officials are now considering how to use these funds to ease the tax burden on residents.
Texas’ High Property Tax Ranking
Texas ranks seventh nationwide in effective property tax rates, making homeownership increasingly expensive. Some Houston-area communities are particularly affected, with recent studies highlighting Pearland as one of the highest-taxed cities in the U.S. Other cities facing heavy tax burdens include Atascocita, Conroe, Sugar Land, and Houston. The combined tax obligations from various jurisdictions in these areas significantly contribute to the financial strain on homeowners.
The Impact on Texas Homeowners
Rising home values, driven in part by post-pandemic demand, have further exacerbated the property tax issue. Many homeowners have seen their tax bills climb sharply despite efforts to curb excessive taxation. The layered taxation from local municipalities, school districts, and county authorities adds to the complexity of the problem, leaving residents struggling to keep up with increasing costs.
Legislative Proposals and Potential Outcomes
As state leaders deliberate over potential solutions, proposals range from direct tax cuts to long-term reforms aimed at stabilizing property tax rates. Some lawmakers advocate for using the surplus to provide immediate relief, while others push for structural changes to the taxation system to ensure more sustainable rates in the future.
Here’s a look at five Houston-area communities with the highest property tax rates:
1. Pearland
National Rank: 10th
Effective Property Tax Rate: 2.16%
Median Home Value: ~$380,000
Median Property Taxes Paid (2023): $7,847 (12th highest in the U.S.)
Pearland homeowners bear the highest property tax burden in Texas, despite the city’s median home value being lower than the national average of $420,000.
2. Atascocita
National Rank: 20th
Effective Property Tax Rate: 1.94%
Located in northeast Harris County, Atascocita has seen rapid population growth in recent years, contributing to increased property valuations and tax burdens.
3. Conroe
National Rank: 21st
Effective Property Tax Rate: 1.88%
As the county seat of Montgomery County, Conroe has experienced significant growth, making it one of the fastest-growing communities in the country alongside Atascocita.
4. Sugar Land
National Rank: 28th
Effective Property Tax Rate: 1.77%
Median Home Value: $451,300
Sugar Land’s relatively high median home value, coupled with its tax rate, contributes to a high median tax bill, ranking among the top 10 in Texas for property taxes paid.
5. Houston
National Rank: 35th
Effective Property Tax Rate: 1.7%
As the state’s largest city, Houston rounds out the top five, with homeowners contending with a property tax rate that remains among the highest in the nation.
The Road Ahead
With property tax reform a top priority for state leaders, Texas lawmakers will debate how best to utilize the state’s budget surplus to provide relief. Homeowners in high-tax areas, particularly in the Houston region, will be watching closely to see if meaningful change is on the horizon. As discussions continue, the outcome could shape the financial landscape for Texas residents for years to come.
Keep up with news on the Texas Legislature with us on Que Onda Magazine.
Fresh off his five Grammy wins, Kendrick Lamar took center stage at the 2025 Super Bowl Apple Music Halftime Show, delivering an unforgettable performance that sent shockwaves across the internet.
His set was not just a showcase of his greatest hits but a carefully crafted statement, loaded with layered symbolism and cultural commentary.
Uncle Sam and the American Dream
One of the most striking elements of the performance was the introduction by Samuel L. Jackson, who portrayed Uncle Sam. Dressed in a red, white, and blue ensemble, Jackson narrated Lamar’s journey, drawing a parallel between the so-called “Great American Game” and the Black experience in America. The moment when Jackson’s Uncle Sam dismissed Lamar’s performance as “too ghetto” before being silenced set the tone for a show deeply rooted in social critique.
Lamar did not shy away from controversy. In a particularly bold moment, he referenced ongoing legal battles surrounding his hit diss track “Not Like Us.”
Looking into the camera, he quipped, “I want to perform their favorite song, but you know they love to sue.” This direct acknowledgment of Drake’s defamation lawsuit against Universal Music Group added another layer of tension and intrigue to the performance.
A Show-Stopping Collaboration with SZA
The halftime show also featured a standout appearance by SZA, one of Lamar’s most frequent collaborators. The duo performed hits like “Luther” and “All The Stars,” showcasing their undeniable chemistry. With both artists coming off highly successful years—Lamar’s dominance in rap and SZA’s chart-topping album and film soundtrack—the performance was a preview of their upcoming “Grand National Tour.”
The Climactic Moment: “Not Like Us”
When Lamar finally launched into “Not Like Us,” the crowd erupted. The stadium pulsed with energy as fans chanted along, especially when Lamar modified his infamous line about Drake, opting for subtlety while still making a powerful impact. The performance cemented the song’s place as one of the most electrifying diss tracks in hip-hop history.
Serena Williams’ Unexpected Cameo
In a moment that left fans buzzing, tennis legend Serena Williams was spotted dancing along to “Not Like Us.” Given her past relationship with Drake and Lamar’s lyric referencing her, the camera cutting to Williams at that precise moment felt intentional—a full-circle moment that added another layer of intrigue to the performance.
Lamar’s halftime show wasn’t just a musical performance; it was a masterclass in storytelling, cultural commentary, and pure entertainment. By blending high-energy music with thought-provoking symbolism, Lamar once again proved why he is one of the most important artists of his generation.
