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Warm days ahead, with rain chances increasing late-week

ABC13 Houston
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Warm days ahead, with rain chances increasing late-week

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — It’s going to be another warm and humid day across Southeast Texas, though we’ll see more clouds today and won’t get quite as hot as the 87 degrees we hit yesterday afternoon.

A weak cool front will be nearby, bringing the possibility for an isolated shower or storm. This will be in the afternoon hours and mainly north of the city of Houston, where gusty winds and small hail would be the primary concerns with the strongest storms.

Is more stormy weather coming next week?

Probably. The new month of April begins with more powerful weather systems tracking across the country, bringing gusty south winds and occasional lines of thunderstorms blowing in from the north. Rain chances may trend even higher next weekend with the potential for a slow-moving rainmaker in Texas.

Does this mean drought conditions will improve?

Likely improve, yes! Completely relieved? Not for everyone. The rain from this past week and what’s expected over the next two weeks will be beneficial though for those with drought conditions.

Have the recent rains helped tame the pollen count?

Yes! Oak pollen earlier in the week came in at over 9,000 pollen particles per cubic meter of air, which was a new record in Houston for the month of March. By Friday, that count had dropped down to just over 1200, which is below the threshold for an “extreme” tree pollen count. However, with this humid and rainy pattern expected into the following week, mold spore counts are expected to rise.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

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

Myanmar Earthquake’s Death Toll Rises to 1600 in Myanmar

Indira Zaldivar
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Myanmar Earthquake’s Death Toll Rises to 1600 in Myanmar

A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Southeast Asia on Friday, leaving a trail of devastation in Myanmar and neighboring countries. By Saturday, the confirmed death toll had surged to 1,600 in Myanmar alone, with experts warning that the true number of fatalities could climb as high as 10,000.

Widespread Destruction and Desperate Search Efforts

The quake, which struck around midday, reduced buildings and bridges to rubble. Rescue teams from multiple countries poured into Myanmar on Saturday, working tirelessly to locate survivors trapped beneath collapsed structures.

Htet Min Oo, a 25-year-old resident of Mandalay, recounted his harrowing experience of being pulled from the wreckage of a fallen wall by fellow survivors. Despite his desperate attempts to locate his grandmother and uncles in the debris, he was ultimately forced to abandon his search.

“I don’t know if they are still alive under the debris,” he said, his voice breaking. “After so long, I don’t think there’s any hope.”

Disaster Spreads Beyond Myanmar

The earthquake’s impact was felt far beyond Myanmar’s borders. In Bangkok, Thailand—nearly 600 miles from the epicenter—a high-rise building collapsed, trapping dozens of construction workers. On Saturday, rescue teams deployed drones, sniffer dogs, and heavy machinery in a frantic effort to locate at least 47 missing individuals, including many Myanmar nationals.

Despite the devastation, Thai Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul expressed optimism. “We always have hope,” he assured reporters. “We’re still working around the clock.”

Myanmar Faces Humanitarian Crisis

As the crisis deepened on Saturday, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) painted a grim picture of conditions in Myanmar. Hospitals are overwhelmed with injured victims, while critical infrastructure—including medical facilities, power grids, and communication networks—has sustained severe damage.

The agency reported that thousands of displaced residents were sleeping in the open, fearing aftershocks or lacking habitable shelter. Water and electricity shortages, coupled with a disrupted telecommunications network, have exacerbated the suffering of survivors.

Death Toll Expected to Climb

Myanmar’s military government confirmed on Saturday that at least 1,644 people had perished in the disaster, with nine additional deaths reported in Thailand. However, projections from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) suggest the actual toll could be far higher, potentially exceeding 10,000.

USGS experts warned that much of Myanmar’s population resides in structures highly vulnerable to earthquake damage, amplifying the risk of casualties. Their assessments also indicate that the financial cost of the disaster may surpass the country’s annual economic output.

“High casualties and extensive damage are probable, and the disaster is likely widespread,” the USGS stated.

International Aid and Relief Efforts

Rescue and humanitarian assistance efforts ramped up over the weekend, with hundreds of international personnel arriving in Myanmar to aid in recovery operations. However, damaged roadways have hindered the delivery of crucial supplies.

A key transport artery, the Yangon-Nay Pyi Taw-Mandalay expressway, sustained significant damage, with large cracks and surface distortions forcing a halt in bus operations, according to OCHA.

Several nations, including Russia, Malaysia, India, China, and Singapore, have pledged aid and manpower to support Myanmar’s recovery. In a statement, Chinese President Xi Jinping announced that China would provide $13.77 million in relief, including emergency medical kits, tents, and blankets.

Despite past tensions between Washington and Myanmar, former U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed that the U.S. would contribute to recovery efforts. “We’re going to be helping,” he said on Friday. “We’ve already spoken with the country.”

The Road to Recovery

As search and rescue operations continue, the full scale of the disaster is only beginning to emerge. With thousands still unaccounted for and critical infrastructure in ruins, Myanmar faces a long and challenging path to recovery. Rescue teams remain on the ground, holding onto the hope of finding survivors amid the devastation.

Keep up with Myanmar’s recovery from the earthquake with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Tennessee bill could issue a 72-hour departure notice to undocumented individuals charged under the law

Indira Zaldivar
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Tennessee bill could issue a 72-hour departure notice to undocumented individuals charged under the law

A controversial bill making its way through the Tennessee legislature is drawing intense criticism from immigrant rights advocates, as it seeks to criminalize the presence of undocumented individuals in the state. If enacted, the measure would not only impose jail time but also require individuals found to be in Tennessee unlawfully to leave the state within 72 hours. The bill has been denounced by activists as “incredibly inhumane.”

Proposed Legislation and Its Impact

Under the proposed law, an initial violation would be classified as a misdemeanor, while repeat offenses could escalate to felony charges. Judges would be mandated to issue a 72-hour departure notice to undocumented individuals charged under the law. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Lee Reeves, is being positioned as a measure to enhance public safety and reduce illegal immigration. Reeves defended the legislation, calling it a “measured, responsible step” to enforce immigration laws and protect Tennessee communities.

However, critics argue that the bill unfairly targets individuals who have been living in Tennessee peacefully for years, contributing to their communities and local economies. Judith Clerjeune, advocacy director for the Tennessee Immigrant and Refugee Rights Coalition, condemned the proposal, stating, “It takes people who have been living here peacefully and contributing to their communities, sometimes for decades, and puts a target on their back based on who they are, where they are from.”

Legal Conditions for Implementation

The bill is designed as a “trigger law,” meaning it would only go into effect under specific legal conditions. It would be activated if the U.S. Supreme Court overturns Arizona v. United States (2012), a decision that ruled states cannot create their own immigration enforcement laws. Alternatively, the bill could become law if a constitutional amendment grants states the authority to regulate immigration or if similar laws in other states remain in effect for at least 60 days.

Additional Legislation Targeting Charities

In a related move, Tennessee lawmakers introduced House Bill 811, which seeks to hold organizations accountable for housing undocumented migrants. Sponsored by Republican state Sen. Brent Taylor and state Rep. Rusty Grills, the bill would allow victims of crimes committed by migrants to sue charities that provided them with housing. Supporters of the bill argue that it aims to prevent organizations from sheltering undocumented individuals without oversight, while opponents warn it could deter charitable work and punish organizations that provide essential aid to vulnerable communities.

Growing Concerns Over Immigration Policies

These legislative efforts have fueled concerns among immigrant rights groups, faith-based organizations, and legal experts. Opponents argue that these laws could lead to racial profiling, break apart families, and create fear among immigrant communities. They also highlight that Tennessee’s economy benefits from immigrant labor and that such policies could have unintended economic consequences.

As debate over the bills continues, immigrant rights groups vow to challenge the measures, emphasizing the need for comprehensive immigration reform rather than punitive state-level legislation.

Keep up with immigration news across the U.S. with us on Que Onda Magazine.

The Legacy of Healthcare Continues at Newly Renovated Harris Health Casa de Amigos Health Center in Near Northside

Que Onda Editorial
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The Legacy of Healthcare Continues at Newly Renovated Harris Health Casa de Amigos Health Center in Near Northside

Harris Health recently completed a major renovation and construction project of its Harris Health Casa de Amigos Health Center to modernize the facility located in Houston’s historic Near Northside. The $19 million multi-year project involved the renovation and addition of new space.

“This renovation signals to the community that we’re keeping up,” says Kelsie Reed, MSN, senior operations manager, Casa de Amigos Health Center. “Sometimes there’s a perception that a safety-net healthcare provider doesn’t provide the same quality care as other systems. The new Casa de Amigos dispels that myth.”

The center offers expanded services, greater access to high quality care and beautification of the facility in a rapidly changing part of the city. Through its bright, open and airy remodel, Casa de Amigos has 29,000 square feet of space, including 3,000 square feet of new construction. 

“We’re almost like a brand-new facility at this point,” says Hammad Mahmood, MD, MBA, medical director, Casa de Amigos, Harris Health. “We offer family medicine and pediatrics. Altogether, we have eight primary care providers who are internists and family medicine specialists, and two pediatricians on staff.” 

Originally built in 1982, the newly expanded facility now houses obstetric and gynecological care, as well as midwifery services, rheumatology, optometry, psychiatry, behavioral health, podiatry, clinical pharmacy and nutrition under one roof. Additionally, the remodel expanded radiology capabilities by adding state-of-the-art digital equipment—considered the best on the market. 

“With this expansive renovation, the community knows we’re here to stay,” Mahmood adds. 

For Jennifer Small, AuD, CEO, Ambulatory Care Services, Harris Health, a key aspect of the renovation is its lasting positive impact on healthcare accessibility. 

“Harris Health and the medical school partnership is something that fosters excellence and derives a lot of quality improvement, performance enhancement, meaningful change and advocacy for our patients,” she says. “Our partnership with Baylor College of Medicine and UTHealth is invaluable. We can’t do this alone.”

To learn more about Harris Health and the services it provides, visit harrishealth.org

Selena’s Killer, Yolanda Saldívar, Denied Parole After 30 Years

Indira Zaldivar
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Selena’s Killer, Yolanda Saldívar, Denied Parole After 30 Years

Yolanda Saldívar, the woman serving a life sentence for the 1995 murder of Tejano music icon Selena Quintanilla-Pérez, has been denied parole by the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles. The decision, announced on Thursday, follows a comprehensive review of Saldívar’s parole eligibility after 30 years behind bars.

Parole Denied Due to Crime’s Severity

The three-member parole panel concluded that Saldívar should not be released due to the gravity of her crime. The board’s statement highlighted that the nature of the offense involved “brutality, violence, and assaultive behavior,” demonstrating a disregard for public safety. This ruling was based on a thorough assessment of Saldívar’s parole review file, which included court records, criminal history, statements from supporters and opponents of her release, and her institutional conduct.

Next Parole Review in 2030

This was Saldívar’s first opportunity for parole since she was convicted of first-degree murder in 1995. She will be reconsidered for parole in March 2030.

Selena was just 23 years old when she was shot and killed at a Days Inn in Corpus Christi, Texas. Saldívar, who had been the president of Selena’s fan club and managed her boutique stores, was found to have been embezzling money from the singer’s business. When confronted, she fatally shot Selena, an act that devastated her family and millions of fans worldwide.

Selena’s Family Responds to Decision

Following the parole board’s ruling, Selena’s family, including her widower, Chris Pérez, expressed gratitude that justice remains upheld. In a statement shared on social media, the Quintanilla family acknowledged the continued support from Selena’s fans and reiterated their commitment to preserving her legacy.

“We are grateful that the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles has chosen to deny parole for Yolanda Saldívar. While nothing can bring Selena back, this decision reaffirms that justice continues to stand for the beautiful life that was taken from us and from millions of fans around the world far too soon,” the statement read.

The family also emphasized their focus on celebrating Selena’s life rather than dwelling on the tragedy. “Selena’s legacy is one of love, music, and inspiration. She lived with joy, gave selflessly, and continues to uplift generations with her voice and spirit. We will continue to celebrate her life — not the tragedy that took her from us — and we ask that all who cherish her do the same.”

Selena’s Enduring Legacy

Selena remains an influential figure in music and culture, inspiring generations with her contributions to Tejano music and beyond. Her story has been immortalized in books, films, and ongoing tributes, ensuring that her impact endures far beyond her years.

As the parole decision stands, Selena’s family and fans continue to honor her memory, focusing on the joy she brought to the world rather than the tragedy that cut her life short.

Keep up with this developing story with us on Que Onda Magazine

ABC13 Weather Watch: Rainmaker could bring heavy downpours with street flooding Friday

Indira Zaldivar
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ABC13 Weather Watch: Rainmaker could bring heavy downpours with street flooding Friday

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — A rainy weather system has moved into Texas and has already brought widespread rains to southeast Texas. The risk of street flooding remains Friday based on the newest forecast data. Our ABC13 Weather Watch will stay in place through Friday evening.

The National Weather Service office in Houston/Galveston has issued a Flood Watch for Colorado, Fort Bend, Brazoria, Jackson, Matagorda, and Wharton counties until 7 pm Friday. Rainfall amounts could range between 1-3 inches with higher amounts in the watch area.

How long will the rain last?

Widely scattered showers and storms are expected through Friday. Our southwest areas around Matagorda Bay may have some flooding issues. Overall, rain chances for the Houston area are at 90% for Friday as the main storm system moves overhead. Training thunderstorms may produce some street flooding in spots.

How much rain are we expecting?

We believe 1 to 3″ will be common across Southeast Texas. Areas closer to Matagorda Bay may receive as much as 3-4″ of rain. That same 3-4″ of rain will be possible anywhere training storms set up on Friday.

Could any storms turn severe?

We cannot rule out a severe thunderstorm at this time, but the overall risk appears low. Gusty winds, small hail, and brief tornadoes are possible in any severe storm.

Will it continue to rain into the weekend?

A few lingering showers are possible Saturday, and we currently have your rain chance at 20%. On Sunday, another storm system will approach from the north, and that could sneak a few strong thunderstorms in late in the day. Your chance of getting measurable rain for Sunday is currently at 30%. Our northern areas north of Harris county will have the highest chance for a severe storm.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

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

Massive Earthquake Devastates War-Torn Myanmar, Shakes Southeast Asia

Edward Saenz
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Massive Earthquake Devastates War-Torn Myanmar, Shakes Southeast Asia

A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar on Friday, toppling buildings and leaving many feared dead in a region already grappling with civil war. The tremors were felt across Southeast Asia, rattling rural villages in Myanmar, towering skyscrapers in Bangkok, and even remote parts of China’s Yunnan province.

The earthquake’s impact was severe, particularly in Myanmar, where infrastructure is already weakened by years of conflict. While official casualty figures have yet to be confirmed, reports indicate deaths in both Myanmar and Thailand. Rescue teams in both countries are working against the clock to aid survivors, though the response efforts vary significantly due to stark differences in resources and governance.

Myanmar, one of Asia’s poorest nations, has historically struggled with disaster response, further complicated by ongoing conflict between the military junta and resistance forces. In contrast, Thailand, a major tourist hub with well-equipped emergency services, has mobilized quickly.

Chaos and Destruction in Myanmar and Thailand

Videos circulating online capture scenes of panic as residents in both Myanmar and Thailand fled swaying high-rises, while traffic halted amid falling debris. Myanmar’s military authorities declared an emergency, urging blood donations for injured victims. The situation in Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, remains critical, with multiple fatalities reported.

Meanwhile, in Bangkok, Thailand’s Prime Minister announced an emergency zone after an under-construction high-rise near Chatuchak Park collapsed, killing at least three people. Thai officials are racing to rescue 81 people trapped beneath the rubble, as concerns mount over structural damage to other high-rise buildings.

A Nation Already in Crisis

For Myanmar, the earthquake adds another layer of devastation to an already dire situation. The country has been engulfed in civil war since a 2021 military coup, which has displaced millions and severely strained healthcare services. Communication remains spotty in affected areas due to power outages and internet disruptions, making it difficult to assess the full scale of the damage.

Amnesty International has urged Myanmar’s junta to allow humanitarian aid groups to operate freely in the region, emphasizing that the disaster could not have come at a worse time. Tom Andrews, the United Nations special rapporteur for Myanmar, described the crisis as “a disaster on top of a disaster,” noting that over 20 million people were already in need of aid before the earthquake struck.

Epicenter in War-Torn Sagaing Region

The U.S. Geological Survey identified the epicenter in Myanmar’s Sagaing region, a battleground between junta forces and ethnic rebel groups. This rural area, primarily composed of wooden and thatched homes, has seen extensive destruction. Rebel-controlled zones and military checkpoints pose additional challenges to rescue and relief efforts.

Among the hardest-hit locations was Taungoo, south of the capital Naypyidaw, where three people reportedly died when a mosque partially collapsed. Further south, Yangon residents described intense shaking, with many rushing out of buildings as the quake lasted nearly a minute.

Dramatic footage obtained from Myanmar appears to show a major bridge over the Irrawaddy River crumbling into the water, sending plumes of dust into the air.

Aftershocks and Continuing Uncertainty

Multiple aftershocks, including one measuring 6.4 in magnitude, have followed the initial quake, raising fears of further destruction. Myanmar’s authorities have yet to release a comprehensive damage assessment, but the situation remains dire.

As rescue operations unfold, the international community watches closely, with aid organizations calling for swift action to assist those affected by this catastrophic event. The full extent of the disaster may take days to uncover, but for now, millions across Myanmar and Southeast Asia are left reeling from yet another humanitarian crisis.

Keep up with international news with us on Que Onda Magazine.

¡Que Onda! Magazine Houston – edición 1321

Indira Zaldivar
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¡Que Onda! Magazine Houston – edición 1321

Babysitter Checks for ‘Monster’ Under Child’s Bed—Finds Something Far Worse

Edward Saenz
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Babysitter Checks for ‘Monster’ Under Child’s Bed—Finds Something Far Worse

What started as a child’s bedtime fear turned into a real-life nightmare for a Kansas babysitter when she discovered an intruder hiding under the bed.

Late Monday night, Barton County sheriff’s deputies responded to a home in Great Bend, Kansas, after receiving a distress call. According to the sheriff’s office, the babysitter had been putting the children to bed when one child repeatedly complained about a “monster” lurking beneath their bed.

When she checked, she found not a monster, but 27-year-old Martin Villalobos Jr.—a man who was legally prohibited from being at the residence due to a protection-from-abuse order.

A confrontation ensued, during which one of the children was knocked over before Villalobos fled the scene. Authorities searched the area but were initially unable to locate him.

The following day, police spotted Villalobos nearby. He attempted to escape on foot but was apprehended after a brief chase. He now faces multiple felony charges, including aggravated kidnapping, aggravated burglary, aggravated battery, child endangerment, felony obstruction, and violating a protection order. He remains in custody on a $500,000 bond.

Authorities have not disclosed Villalobos’ relationship to the children, but the terrifying ordeal has left a lasting impact on the babysitter and the family involved.

This chilling incident serves as a stark reminder that sometimes, childhood fears aren’t as imaginary as they seem.

Keep up with trending news with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Mexican Workforce in the U.S. Shrinks Amid Immigration Crackdown and Deportation Fears

Indira Zaldivar
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Mexican Workforce in the U.S. Shrinks Amid Immigration Crackdown and Deportation Fears

A recent report by the Center for Latin American Monetary Studies reveals a decline in Mexican immigrant employment in the U.S. during the first two months of 2025, compared to the same period in 2024.

According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau’s Current Population Survey, the number of employed Mexican immigrants dropped by 16,046 positions—a 0.2% decrease—from 7,474,325 in early 2024 to 7,458,279 in early 2025.

However, the report does not determine whether this decline stems from reduced demand for labor or whether fear of deportation has kept some workers away from jobs.

“Rumors of raids are having more impact at this point than raids themselves,” said Brian Turmail, vice president of public affairs for the Associated General Contractors of America, in a March 7 Axios report. Business groups have urged the Trump administration to reconsider its intensified immigration enforcement, warning of economic repercussions.

The decline primarily affected Mexican immigrants without U.S. citizenship, including both documented non-citizens and undocumented workers. In contrast, employment among Mexican immigrants who are U.S. citizens increased.

Migrant farm workers from Mexico harvest organic spinach while working at Grant Family Farms.Courtesy: John Moore via Getty Images

The job loss has been particularly pronounced among men. Employment for Mexican immigrant men fell by 65,967 positions (a 1.4% decline), while female employment rose by 49,921 positions (1.9%), increasing women’s share of the Mexican immigrant workforce to 36.2% in early 2025.

This trend follows declines in the previous two-month periods, indicating a steady downturn in employment for Mexican immigrants—especially for non-citizen men.

Keep up with the migrant workforce and more immigration news with us on Que Onda Magazine.

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