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Catastrophic Flooding Kills at Least 80 in Texas

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Historic floods have killed at least 80 people across Texas following days of heavy rain, with search and rescue efforts ongoing.

Kerr County Hit the Hardest

Kerr County suffered the most devastation, reporting 68 deaths, including 28 children. President Donald Trump signed a disaster declaration for the area, bringing FEMA response teams to assist.

Dozens Still Missing

As of late Sunday, at least 41 people remained missing statewide. Search crews are still combing through flooded areas in central Texas.

Camp Mystic Mourns 27 Lives Lost

Camp Mystic, a summer camp in Hunt, Texas, confirmed that 27 campers and counselors died when flash floods swept through the Guadalupe River banks. The camp expressed heartbreak and gratitude for the community’s support during the tragedy.

New Flood Warnings Issued

Flash flood warnings remain in effect, with Llano County now under a “considerable” flood alert. Saturated ground conditions are causing rivers and creeks to overflow rapidly.

Flood Watch Continues in Hill Country

A flood watch remains in place through Monday evening for Hill Country regions, including Kerr County, Austin, and San Antonio. Forecasters warn of isolated storms producing 2 to 4 inches of rain, with some spots seeing up to 10 inches.

Deaths Reported in Other Counties

In addition to Kerr County, fatalities were confirmed in Travis, Williamson, Burnet, and Tom Green counties as the state confronts one of its deadliest natural disasters in recent history.

Follow every update on this story with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Brazilian Tourist Dies After Fall on Indonesian Volcano

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Brazilian dancer and publicist Juliana Marins, 26, tragically died after falling from Mount Rinjani, Indonesia’s second-highest volcano, during a group trek on June 21.

Survived Initial Fall But Rescued Too Late

Marins slipped and fell about 600 meters in two stages. Despite surviving the first fall and being seen alive and calling for help, poor weather, loose terrain, and difficult conditions delayed rescue efforts. Her body was found three days later using a thermal drone.

Cause of Death Confirmed by Autopsy

An autopsy confirmed that Marins died from internal bleeding and organ damage caused by blunt force trauma. Forensic experts ruled out hypothermia. They estimated she succumbed to her injuries within 20 minutes of the fall.

Family Criticizes Rescue Response

Her family believes she could have been saved if rescuers had arrived sooner.

“Juliana deserved much more,” they said, vowing to seek justice for her.

Rescue Officials Cite Harsh Conditions

Indonesia’s rescue agency explained that bad weather and rough terrain delayed recovery efforts. Helicopter evacuation was impossible, forcing teams to carry her body down the volcano by foot.

Father Blames Poor Infrastructure

At her funeral in Niteroi, Brazil, her father criticized Indonesia’s tourist safety standards, calling the tragedy a “disregard for human life” and urging for better rescue infrastructure in tourist areas.

For more, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

2 Teens Killed, 5 Injured in Indianapolis Mass Shooting

Two teenage boys were killed and five others wounded in a mass shooting early Saturday in downtown Indianapolis, police said.

Gunfire Erupts in Downtown Indianapolis

Officers responded to reports of a disturbance near Washington and Meridian Street at 1:27 a.m. and heard gunshots upon arrival. A 16-year-old boy was found dead at the scene.

Victims Mostly Teens and Young Adults

Five others were hospitalized, including a 15-year-old boy who later died. Police said the other victims include a 16-year-old, a 17-year-old, two 19-year-olds, and a 21-year-old. One victim drove themselves to the hospital.

No Suspects or Motive Identified

As of Saturday afternoon, no suspects had been identified, and the motive remains unknown. The investigation is ongoing.

City Leaders Decry the Violence

Indianapolis Police Chief Chris Bailey voiced frustration over the ongoing violence, while Mayor Joe Hogsett called the tragedy preventable and expressed sorrow for the victims’ families.

For more details on this story, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Daily, isolated showers and storms possible each day

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — The weather system that brought catastrophic flooding to Central Texas will continue to swirl over the region Sunday, leaving the opportunity for few showers and storms in parts of Southeast Texas. However, that kind of flooding is not expected locally from this same system. The Hill Country will continue to see some thunderstorms today, though the storms will be moving, which limits the flood threat going forward.

Here in Southeast Texas we’ll keep a mix of cloud cover and sunshine for Sunday as temperatures rise into the low-mid 90s in the afternoon. Isolated showers and storms could develop around Noon and lingering through the early evening. These developing with the help of the sea breeze and that disturbance to the west over Central Texas. While the best chance for rain Sunday will be west of I-45 along and closer to the Brazos River, we’re not ruling out a few showers and storms in Montgomery or Harris County and along the coast too.

What else should we know about the flooding in central Texas?

Eventually all of that water will drain through the Colorado River Basin and out to the Gulf. In the meantime, both Lake Travis and Canyon Lake are going to hold the bulk of the rain and floodwaters. Area flooding around those regions in local rivers, creeks and streams are possible. Meanwhile, both the Colorado and Guadalupe River’s downstream closer to the gulf will begin to rise early next week and are expected to crest in minor flood stage along many spots between July 9th and 11th. This could change depending on how much rain falls through Sunday and how the stream flows downstream, but as of now no major river flooding is expected. Again, this system will also not bring flash flooding to the city of Houston and Southeast Texas at this time.

What’s in store early next week?

Another batch of moisture rolls in here on Monday along with an upper air disturbance, pushing those rain odds up to 30% Monday and 40% Tuesday.

Is any triple digit heat in the forecast?

Not at this time. In fact, we still haven’t hit 100 so far this summer! It no longer looks like a heat ridge will park on us next week, so we’re predicting highs in the mid-to-upper 90s with a slim chance for an afternoon shower most days next week. That being said, highs in the upper 90s Friday through Sunday of next week could allow for some spots to sneak into the triple digits.

What’s happening in the tropics?

Tropical Storm Chantal has formed and will drench the Carolinas with heavy rain. For a thorough update and in-depth video on what’s happening in the tropics, head to our tropical update page.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Keep up with all things Houston with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Tropical Storm Chantal Makes Landfall in South Carolina

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Tropical Storm Chantal came ashore early Sunday morning near Litchfield Beach, South Carolina, with sustained winds of 50 mph. The National Hurricane Center reported the storm’s center was about 70 miles northeast of Charleston at landfall around 4 a.m.

Storm Brings Strong Winds and Rain to Carolinas

Tropical storm warnings remained in effect from South Santee River, South Carolina, to Surf City, North Carolina, including Myrtle Beach. Peak winds in these areas were expected to reach 20-30 mph, with gusts up to 45 mph. A watch for areas further south, including Charleston, was canceled after landfall.

Flash Flooding Threat Continues

Heavy rainfall from Chantal’s outer and inner bands is producing flash flooding risks. Rain totals of 2 to 4 inches are expected across the Carolinas, with isolated spots seeing up to 6 inches. Flood watches were issued for coastal and inland areas, including Myrtle Beach, Fayetteville, and Raleigh.

Storm Weakening as it Moves Inland

Chantal began weakening shortly after landfall and is expected to become a tropical depression later Sunday before dissipating by Monday. Scattered thunderstorms and gusty winds will continue to affect the region throughout the day, along with minor storm surge of 1 to 3 feet during high tide along the Carolina coast.

Early Arrival in Hurricane Season

Chantal is the third named storm of the Atlantic season, which typically doesn’t see its third storm until early August.

For more on hurricane safety, read our guide and stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Pope Leo XIV Resumes Summer Retreat Tradition at Castel Gandolfo

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Pope Leo XIV is reviving a long-standing papal tradition by heading to Castel Gandolfo for a six-week vacation, marking the first time a pope has spent the summer there since Pope Francis chose to stay in Rome during his 12-year papacy.

A Time for Rest and Reflection

Before leaving, Leo told crowds in St. Peter’s Square he was taking a brief rest and encouraged others to take time to refresh body and spirit. The 69-year-old pontiff is expected to use the quieter setting to reflect on key challenges facing the Church after a busy start to his papacy.

Historic Papal Retreat

Built in the 17th century, the Castel Gandolfo palace has long been a summer refuge for popes. The estate includes gardens, a farm, and an observatory, as well as an environmental center inspired by Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si.

Town Welcomes Return of Papal Summers

The pope’s visit is a welcome revival for the town, whose businesses missed the traditional summer crowds during Francis’ papacy. Although the papal residence was opened as a museum year-round under Francis, locals say it couldn’t fully replace the excitement of a pope’s presence.

Hopes for Future Visits and New Writings

Castel Gandolfo’s mayor expressed hope that Leo will visit more frequently, as previous popes did, and perhaps even draft important Church documents from the residence. Townspeople and officials alike are eager to see the estate regain its place as a spiritual and cultural hub for the Catholic world.

For more on Pope Leo and other religious news, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Texas floods’ death toll climbs to 51

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Texas Floods Leave Dozens Dead, Girls Missing at Summer Camp

Rescuers in Kerr County, Texas, are searching through debris and floodwaters after a devastating flash flood killed at least 51 people and left 27 girls missing from Camp Mystic, a Christian summer camp. The floodwaters rose 26 feet on the Guadalupe River in under an hour before sunrise Friday, destroying homes, overturning vehicles, and flattening trees.

Rescue Efforts Underway

Teams using helicopters, boats, and drones continue to search the area. Officials said more than 850 people have been rescued so far. Gov. Greg Abbott declared Sunday a statewide day of prayer and pledged nonstop search efforts as more areas became accessible.

Camp Mystic Hit Overnight

Camp Mystic was hit in the middle of the night, leaving campers scrambling for safety. Some survivors were evacuated by helicopter, while others crossed rising waters holding onto rescue ropes. At least 15 children are among the dead. Families have been posting photos and pleas online as they search for missing loved ones.

Warnings and Scrutiny

Though weather alerts had been issued hours earlier, the speed and intensity of the flood caught many off guard. Some area camps, such as Mo-Ranch and Camps Rio Vista and Sierra Vista, had already moved campers to higher ground.

Community in Shock

Local leaders and residents described scenes of chaos as people clung to trees and climbed into attics to escape the rising water. Erin Burgess and her teenage son held onto a tree for an hour, while others, like Barry Adelman, sheltered in their attics with family members.

Flood-Prone Area Faces Difficult Recovery

The Texas Hill Country, often called “flash flood alley,” is prone to fast-moving floods due to its rocky terrain. Officials said a proposed flood warning system was never implemented due to cost concerns. Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly said recovery efforts would be long and difficult, calling the flood a heartbreaking disaster.

Federal Assistance Arrives

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Gov. Abbott pledged full support from the federal and state governments. Coast Guard helicopters and planes are assisting in search and rescue operations, which will continue as long as needed.

Looking Ahead

The community now faces the painful task of recovery, with flash flood watches still in effect and the number of missing yet unknown beyond the 27 girls from Camp Mystic.

Follow every update on this story with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Tropical Storm Chantal Forms Off Southeast Coast

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Tropical Storm Chantal formed earlier this morning off the southeastern U.S. coast and is forecasted to track northward toward the Carolinas in the coming days, according to the National Hurricane Center.

The Harris County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management (HCOHSEM) is actively monitoring the storm’s progress and will continue to provide updates throughout the 2025 hurricane season.

Preparedness Starts at Home

HCOHSEM reminds residents that the best way to build a resilient community is by preparing now and encouraging friends and neighbors to do the same.

Build an Emergency Kit

Emergency supply kits should contain enough non-perishable food and water for seven days. Other essential items include:

  • Medications and first aid supplies
  • Flashlights and batteries
  • Baby care items
  • Pet supplies, such as food, water, leashes, medications, and vaccination records

A full checklist is available on the ReadyHarris website under the “Get Prepared” tab.

Create an Evacuation Plan

Residents in evacuation zones should know their routes and follow local instructions. To check if your home is in an evacuation zone, visit the Zip Zone Evacuation Map.

Those who may need extra help during an evacuation — including medically fragile individuals and those needing transportation assistance — should register with the State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry (STEAR) online or by calling 2-1-1.

HCOHSEM also encourages homeowners, renters, and business owners to obtain flood insurance and review their existing policies to ensure they are up to date.

Stay Informed During Hurricane Season

Stay weather aware by signing up for emergency alerts at www.readyharris.org and texting GULF2025 to 888777 for hurricane updates.

Residents can also follow HCOHSEM on social media and subscribe to Ready Harris Alerts and Ready Harris Accessible Alerts for timely information before, during, and after a storm.

For more on hurricane safety, read our guide and stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Deadly Fireworks Blaze in Los Angeles Leaves 1 Dead, 5 Injured

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A fireworks-related residential fire in Los Angeles’ Pacoima neighborhood killed one man and injured five others Thursday night. The blaze quickly spread to four properties, triggering a massive response from over 130 firefighters, officials said.

Explosions Fueled the Fire’s Spread

The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) said the fire involved a large cache of fireworks stored in a detached garage. As the flames spread, fireworks continued detonating, threatening nearby brush and structures.

Witnesses Describe Explosion-Like Impact

“It felt like an explosion,” one resident told KABC. He described seeing fireworks go off as fires broke out across the street, causing chaos in the neighborhood.

Casualties and Animal Rescues

Firefighters found a man in his 30s dead after extinguishing the fire. A 33-year-old woman was hospitalized in critical but stable condition. Four others were treated at the scene for smoke inhalation. Several animals were injured; at least one dog was rushed to an emergency veterinary hospital.

Fire Contained in Under an Hour

The blaze, reported shortly after 9 p.m., engulfed three one-story homes, multiple accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and a parked vehicle. Firefighters contained the fire within 53 minutes.

Gas Leak and Electrical Hazards Managed

Responders also addressed a gas leak and downed live electrical wires behind the properties. The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power and the gas company were called to assist.

Officials Urge Safe Fireworks Practices

Firefighter David Ortiz warned against unlicensed fireworks use in Southern California’s dry conditions. “Leave the fireworks to the professionals,” he urged. “They are very powerful and can start fires.”

The cause of the blaze remains under investigation. For more details on this story, stay tuned with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Russia Launches Massive Drone Attack on Ukraine Leaving 11 Injured

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Russia unleashed a wave of 322 drones on Ukraine overnight, marking another major escalation in the conflict. According to the Ukrainian air force, 292 of the drones were either shot down or neutralized by other defensive measures.

Injuries Reported Near Kharkiv

In the Kharkiv region, 11 people, including two children, were injured when a drone strike hit overnight, local emergency services reported. Emergency crews worked to extinguish fires caused by the attack.

Khmelnytskyi Region Among Primary Targets

Many of the drones were aimed at Ukraine’s Khmelnytskyi region, particularly the city of Starokostiantyniv, which has been a frequent target in recent months.

Follows Largest Air Assault of the War

This latest attack came just one day after Russia launched its largest missile and drone assault of the war, targeting Kyiv with a record-breaking barrage.

Ukraine Strikes Back

In response, Ukraine’s military targeted a Russian airfield in Borisoglebsk early Saturday. Ukrainian officials said the strike hit an airbase housing Su-34, Su-35S, and Su-30SM fighter jets, along with a depot of glide bombs and other equipment.

Ongoing Escalation

The exchange marks another escalation in the ongoing war, as both sides continue to target key military infrastructure and civilian areas.

For the latest on the deadly Russia-Ukraine war, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.