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Saharan haze sticks around Tuesday as rain chances drops

ABC13 Houston
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Saharan haze sticks around Tuesday as rain chances drops

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Storm chances drop to 20% on Tuesday as Saharan haze continues to linger over Southeast Texas. This trend of hotter and drier afternoons will continue through the Fourth of July holiday weekend.

We are starting Tuesday off warm, with temperatures in the 70s. We are also seeing Saharan dust overhead, which is causing the sky to look a bit hazy. That’s the Saharan haze that will remain overhead for much of the week.

Despite the dry, dusty air, there will still be enough moisture for a 20% chance of a late afternoon downpour. High temperatures will reach the mid-90s, with heat indices between 100 and 105.

How long does this Saharan dust stick around?

Two plumes of Saharan dust are impacting us this week. The first dust cloud is already here and will impact Houston through Wednesday. The second dust cloud is moving in for the Fourth of July. This Saharan dust will lead to a hazy gray sky, vibrant sunrises and sunsets, and a reduction in air quality for those who are sensitive to particulate matter, allergic to the dust, or have underlying respiratory issues.

What’s the outlook for July 4th and the Freedom Over Texas fireworks show?

At this time, it looks dry but hot! Temperatures will peak in the upper 90s with heat index values well above 100. Heat advisories are possible, and that heat will stick around for the entire weekend!

What’s happening in the tropics?

Tropical Storm Barry fizzled out over Mexico, and now we are watching a zone of potential development near Florida. 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.

METRO to Restrict Evening Access on I-69 Eastex HOV/HOT Lane for Single Drivers Starting July 7

Michael Esparza
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METRO to Restrict Evening Access on I-69 Eastex HOV/HOT Lane for Single Drivers Starting July 7

METRO is rolling out a new policy to ease rush-hour congestion by restricting solo drivers from using the I-69 North (Eastex) HOV/HOT lane during evening peak hours starting Monday, July 7.

Under the revised schedule, only high-occupancy vehicles (HOVs) will be allowed to use the Eastex HOV/HOT lane from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Single-occupant vehicles (SOVs) will be prohibited during that time window in order to boost traffic efficiency and improve safety during the busiest part of the day.

The decision comes after traffic along the corridor began slowing to near standstill conditions, prompting concern from riders and METRO field personnel.

“Through the METRONow plan, we are focused on improving regional mobility not just for our riders, but for the entire community,” said Interim METRO President & CEO Tom Jasien. “Maintaining free-flowing HOV/HOT lanes is essential to meeting our system-wide standards for reliability, and it also helps make travel easier and more predictable for drivers.”

The new evening rule aligns I-69 North with METRO’s other major HOV/HOT corridors, which already have peak-hour restrictions in both directions. Morning HOV-only access from 6:30 to 8 a.m. will continue as usual.

To support enforcement, METRO has coordinated with its police department and operations contractor ahead of the July 7 launch.

For more on traffic and transportation updates, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Harris County Pets Urges Caution for Pets During Fourth of July

Indira Zaldivar
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Harris County Pets Urges Caution for Pets During Fourth of July

As Independence Day approaches, Harris County Pets is reminding residents to take steps to protect pets from the dangers of fireworks and holiday celebrations. The agency warns that while festivities may be fun for people, they can be frightening and even harmful to animals.

Fireworks and Loud Celebrations Can Harm Pets

“Fireworks may be exciting for us, but they can be terrifying for pets,” said Corey Steele, Director of Harris County Veterinary Public Health.

He noted that the organization typically sees an increase in calls about stray or frightened animals after the holiday. Harris County Pets advises owners to prepare ahead of time, keep pets indoors, and ensure microchip information is up to date.

Tips for Pet Safety

Harris County Pets recommends that pet owners leave animals at home during parades, parties, or fireworks displays. Instead, pets should stay in a quiet, secure area indoors, preferably with familiar bedding and soothing background noise such as a fan or television. Pet owners should also confirm their pets have proper ID tags and microchips with current contact information.

Owners are also urged to take a recent photo of their pets, check fences and doors for escape risks, and consult with a veterinarian if their pets show signs of noise anxiety. Additionally, holiday hazards like fireworks, grills, and party food should be kept out of reach.

Helping Reunite Lost Pets

Harris County Pets scans every stray animal for a microchip upon intake.

“A registered microchip significantly increases the chances of a happy reunion,” the agency said in its release. If you find a loose animal, call Harris County Pets at (281) 999-3191 to report it.

The agency emphasizes that preparing in advance is the best way to keep pets safe during the July Fourth holiday.

For more on pet and owner safety, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Supreme Court to Hear GOP Challenge to Campaign Spending Limits

Indira Zaldivar
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Supreme Court to Hear GOP Challenge to Campaign Spending Limits

The U.S. Supreme Court announced Monday it will take up a Republican-led challenge to federal limits on coordinated campaign spending, a decision that could have major implications for the 2026 midterm elections.

Core of the Case

The case, NRSC v. Federal Elections Commission, questions whether federal limits on “coordinated party expenditures” violate the First Amendment. These limits cap how much national party committees and campaign organizations can spend in direct coordination with their candidates.

Potential Impact on 2026 Elections

A ruling in favor of the Republican plaintiffs could dismantle spending caps and allow for significantly more money to be funneled into campaigns through direct party coordination. Campaign finance experts warn this could reshape the political landscape heading into 2026.

Republican Leaders Applaud Court’s Move

Rep. Richard Hudson, chairman of the National Republican Congressional Committee, and Sen. Tim Scott, chairman of the National Republican Senatorial Committee, issued a joint statement praising the court’s decision. They argued that restricting a party’s ability to support its own candidates infringes on free speech and undermines campaign strategy.

Current Spending Limits

For 2025, coordinated spending caps range from $127,200 to nearly $4 million for Senate races, depending on the size of a state’s voting population. House races have caps of $63,600 in most states and $127,200 in states with a single at-large district.

Additional Cases Added to Docket

The justices added seven cases to the upcoming term, including Cox Communications v. Sony Entertainment Group, which addresses liability in online copyright infringement cases. More case announcements are expected later this week.

Senate Begins Vote on Trump’s ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’

Edward Saenz
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Senate Begins Vote on Trump’s ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’

The Senate launched a “vote-a-rama” Monday morning to debate amendments to President Donald Trump’s sweeping tax and immigration bill, part of his second-term agenda. The process follows a dramatic weekend session that included a close 51-49 vote to advance the measure and a forced reading of the 940-page bill by Senate Democrats.

Reconciliation Process Faces Hurdles

Several provisions in the bill were struck down overnight by the Senate parliamentarian, limiting what Republicans can include under the reconciliation process. If the Senate passes the amended bill, it will return to the House, which previously approved its version by a single vote.

Fierce Floor Debate

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer criticized the bill as favoring the wealthy, promising Democrats would introduce a wave of amendments to force Republicans on the record. Senate Majority Leader John Thune defended the bill, calling it essential for cutting taxes and reforming government programs like Medicaid.

House Readies for a Potential Vote

House GOP leaders announced the earliest they could vote on the bill would be Wednesday, July 2. They warned members to be ready for a 48-hour notice, followed by 72 hours to review the bill. Speaker Mike Johnson and Republican leadership continued negotiating through the weekend to secure enough votes, though opposition from both moderates and conservatives remains.

Pushback from Within the GOP

Rep. David Valadao said he would vote “no” over concerns about Medicaid cuts, while Reps. Chip Roy, Josh Breechen, and Eric Burlison also voiced objections to the Senate’s changes. Reports surfaced that Republican leaders urged members not to publicize internal dissent.

Senator Tillis Breaks Ranks

Sen. Thom Tillis of North Carolina took a firm stand against the bill, citing broken promises on Medicaid and calling Trump’s July 4 deadline “artificial.” Tillis, who announced plans to retire after criticism from Trump, urged colleagues to slow the process and revise the legislation more carefully.

What Comes Next

The Senate will continue voting on amendments until the process concludes, followed by a final vote that requires a simple majority. If approved, the bill will head back to the House for consideration of the Senate’s revisions.

For more on the Senate’s “Big Beautiful Bill”, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Humble ISD Approves Pay Raises for FY 2025-26

Michael Esparza
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Humble ISD Approves Pay Raises for FY 2025-26

Humble ISD officials have approved salary increases ranging from 3% to 7% for most district employees in the upcoming fiscal year. The decision was made during a board meeting on June 17.

Details of the Compensation Plan

The board adopted a general fund budget totaling $543.6 million in expenses and $543.7 million in revenue for FY 2025-26, maintaining the same tax rate of $1.1052 per $100 valuation as the previous year. Teachers with one to two years of experience will receive average raises of 3%, while those with at least three years will see average raises of 7%. Most non-teaching staff will also receive 3% raises.

Teacher Pay and State Support

The starting salary for new teachers will increase from $64,350 to $66,000. Funding for the raises largely comes from House Bill 2, which provides $2,500 raises for teachers with three to four years of experience and $5,000 for those with five or more years. The district expects nearly $13.9 million from the state to support these raises.

Additional Funding and Future Plans

When accounting for other allocations, Humble ISD anticipates approximately $52 million in added state funding through HB 2 over the next two fiscal years. CFO Billy Beattie emphasized that the raises help the district remain competitive and prepare for future needs.

Tax Rate Decision in September

The board is expected to vote on adopting the proposed tax rate during its meeting in September. For more updates on this story, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Isolated storms for Monday as Saharan dust moves in

ABC13 Houston
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Isolated storms for Monday as Saharan dust moves in

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — After a stormy Sunday, we have one last chance for isolated storms on Monday before warmer and drier weather settles in heading into the Fourth of July.

You might notice a hazy sky to start the day. That’s Saharan dust moving in, and will linger for a couple of days this week.

Today will be another sunny and warm day with the chance for isolated showers and storms in the afternoon. High temperatures will reach the mid-90s, but any rain could cool things off locally to the low-mid 80s.

And what about this batch of Saharan Dust?

Yes, Saharan dust is the story for this week. Two plumes of Saharan dust will move into the Gulf from the Caribbean over the next 10 days, and both could impact Houston, too. We’re expecting the first dust cloud Monday through Wednesday, with the second one moving in for the Fourth of July. Saharan dust could lead to a hazy sky, vibrant sunrises and sunsets, but also a reduction in air quality for those who are sensitive to particulate matter and have underlying respiratory issues.

What’s the outlook for July 4th and the Freedom Over Texas fireworks show?

At this time, it looks dry but hot! Temperatures will peak near 100 with heat index values well above 100. Heat advisories could be issued for the first time this year for Houston, and expect a hot weekend too after the holiday!

What’s happening in the tropics?

Tropical Storm Barry has formed in the Southwest Gulf. This tropical system will be short-lived and does not pose a threat to Southeast Texas. This system will make landfall late Sunday night along the Gulf Coast of Mexico. 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.

Child and Father Rescued After Falling Overboard on Disney Dream

Indira Zaldivar
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Child and Father Rescued After Falling Overboard on Disney Dream

A terrifying moment aboard the Disney Dream cruise ship turned into a remarkable rescue when a child fell overboard on June 29—and her father jumped in after her. The ship was returning to Fort Lauderdale after a four-night Bahamian cruise, including a visit to Disney’s Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.

Emergency Response Activated

The ship’s emergency alert system issued a “Mr. M.O.B.” (man overboard) call, prompting immediate action from the crew. A Disney Cruise Line spokesperson confirmed that both guests were rescued from the water within minutes thanks to the swift deployment of life preservers and a rescue boat.

Passengers Praise Crew’s Quick Action

Social media posts praised the crew’s rapid response. Passenger Kevin Furuta shared on Facebook that the child fell from Deck 4, which has a walking track, and her father followed. “Thankfully the DCL rescue team was on it immediately and both were saved,” he wrote.

Incident Occurred at Sea

Contrary to speculation, the ship was not docked at the time. The rescue occurred while the Disney Dream was sailing between The Bahamas and Florida. The cause of the fall remains unclear, despite the presence of plexiglass safety barriers.

Advanced Safety Technology

Disney ships are equipped with overboard detection systems to assist in emergencies like this. The incident showcases the effectiveness of the ship’s safety protocols and the preparedness of its crew.

For more on travel safety, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Young Musician Brings Comfort to Shelter Animals Through Live Music

Indira Zaldivar
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0
Young Musician Brings Comfort to Shelter Animals Through Live Music

A 12-year-old from Houston is helping calm anxious shelter animals by playing music for them. Yuvi Agarwal, who began playing keyboard at age 4, was inspired by how his dog Bozo responded to music and wondered if it could help other animals in stressful environments, The Associated Press reported.

Wild Tunes Expands Across States

In 2023, with support from his parents, Agarwal founded Wild Tunes, a nonprofit that organizes live music performances in animal shelters. The initiative has grown to include about 100 volunteer musicians performing at nine shelters across Houston, New Jersey, and Denver.

Music That Transcends Species

Agarwal believes music connects beyond language and species. At the Denver Animal Shelter, he recently played songs like “Hey Jude” and “Perfect” for dogs and cats. He noted that while animals often greet him with excitement, they calm down or even fall asleep once he starts playing.\

Screenshot courtesy: The Associated Press

From Nervous to Affectionate

One memorable moment for Agarwal involved a fearful dog named Penelope in Houston. Initially too frightened to leave her kennel, Penelope eventually warmed up to him during his music session and showered him with affection.

Volunteers Add Variety and Enrichment

Professional flutist Sarah McDonner, who met Agarwal in Houston, now performs in Denver and helped expand Wild Tunes there. She believes the interaction provides enrichment for the animals and increases their chances of adoption.

Science Offers Mixed Views

While some studies suggest classical music has calming effects on dogs, experts like Colorado State University professor Lori Kogan urge caution. The impact of music can vary based on many factors, including the type of music and the animal’s past experiences. Kogan recommends pet owners test what works on a case-by-case basis.

Mutual Benefits for Musicians and Pets

Despite the uncertainty in the research, Agarwal remains confident in the power of music. He hopes to expand Wild Tunes nationwide and believes both animals and volunteers benefit. “You get to practice in front of a nonjudgmental audience, which can boost your confidence,” he said.

For more heartwarming stories spotlighting kind humans like Agarwal, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Senate Advances Trump’s Tax and Spending Plan After Dramatic Vote

Edward Saenz
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Senate Advances Trump’s Tax and Spending Plan After Dramatic Vote

The Senate narrowly advanced President Donald Trump’s sweeping tax break and spending cut plan late Saturday, pushing forward a key procedural vote despite internal party tensions and opposition from Democrats.

The 51–49 vote came after hours of stalled negotiations, with Vice President JD Vance on standby to break a tie.

Divisions Within the GOP

Two Republicans—Sens. Thom Tillis and Rand Paul—joined all Democrats in voting against the bill. Tillis objected to proposed Medicaid cuts, warning they could strip healthcare from thousands in his state. The Congressional Budget Office estimated the bill would leave 11.8 million more Americans without health insurance by 2034.

Contentious Policy Proposals

The 940-page bill includes permanent extensions of Trump-era tax cuts, new tax breaks like untaxed tips, and $350 billion for national security and Trump’s deportation agenda. But it also proposes sharp cuts to Medicaid, food stamps, and green energy investments. Critics like Sen. Ron Wyden called the environmental rollbacks “a death sentence” for the clean energy sector.

High-Stakes Negotiations

Senators engaged in intense, last-minute negotiations, with figures like Majority Leader John Thune and JD Vance huddling with holdouts behind closed doors. Sen. Rick Scott later said, “We all want to get to yes,” signaling ongoing GOP efforts to unify around the bill.

Revisions and Parliamentarian Hurdles

Republicans revised portions of the bill to comply with Senate rules after proposals related to food stamps and consumer protections were initially struck down. A revised Medicaid cutback now includes a delayed start and a $25 billion fund to support rural hospitals.

Tax Impact and SALT Dispute

The bill’s benefits would favor top earners, giving them an average $12,000 tax cut, while low-income Americans could lose around $1,600, according to the CBO. A contentious provision on state and local tax (SALT) deductions was amended to raise the cap from $10,000 to $40,000 for five years, a compromise still dividing lawmakers.

Next Steps Toward Final Passage

All-night debate and further amendments await in the Senate. If passed, the legislation will head back to the House. With narrow GOP majorities, leaders must rally nearly every Republican vote to meet Trump’s goal of signing the bill by July 4.

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

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