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Record warmth continues this week until the next storm system rolls in Thursday

ABC13 Houston
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Record warmth continues this week until the next storm system rolls in Thursday

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Sunday we set a new daily record when it reached 86 degrees in Houston, breaking the previous daily record high temperature of 85 set back on this day in 1948. And we’ve got a few more days this week when these records could be in jeopardy with highs in the mid 80s. This ahead of a powerful Pacific storm system that eventually brings us a chance for severe weather.

Temperatures will fall into the mid 60s to low 70s Monday morning. With the higher humidity, there’s the chance for a few areas of fog to develop for the morning commute. Any fog should lift by mid morning with more sunshine arriving for the afternoon. Monday’s highs will be back in the mid 80s, potentially setting a new record for the day too.

When should we expect rain with this week’s next storm system?

That powerful storm system should bring us a round of widespread showers and thunderstorms on Thursday with a cold front following Friday. Given how warm and humid the air will be, it’s possible we could even have severe weather, but we’ve got plenty of time to sort out the details on that one. Speaking of humidity, this will also help in the rain department with potentially around 1 to 3 inches of rain falling across Southeast Texas Thursday. In the days ahead of its arrival, we can expect streamer showers to roll in from the Gulf, good enough for a 10-20% chance of rain Monday through Wednesday.

Will it cool down behind those storms?

Yes, but it won’t be nearly as chilly as what we experienced with our last cold front. We are looking at lows in the 50s and highs in the 70s, which is closer to normal for this time of year.

What does the weekend look like then?

Not as record warm as of now! In fact, this weekend’s forecast is a tricky one to pin down at the moment as it depends on what happens with Thursday’s storm system. There’s the chance a second storm system could roll quickly behind the one on Thursday, bringing more widespread rain for both Saturday and Sunday. There’s also the chance this storm systems stays out west, keeping Southeast Texas a little drier but still with the chance for a few showers and storms. Either way, temperature wise it looks like Houston will be closer to seasonal conditions each day with morning lows in the mid-upper 50s and afternoon highs in the mid 70s.

13 ALERT RADAR MAPS:
Southeast Texas
Houston
Harris County
Galveston County
Montgomery/Walker/San Jacinto/Polk/Grimes Counties
Fort Bend/Wharton/Colorado Counties
Brazoria/Matagorda Counties

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

For more Houston headlines, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine!

Paxton Sues Harris County Over Funding for Immigrant Legal Aid Program

Edward Saenz
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Paxton Sues Harris County Over Funding for Immigrant Legal Aid Program

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a lawsuit against Harris County, accusing local officials of illegally allocating public money to a program that helps undocumented immigrants secure legal representation.

The lawsuit, filed in Harris County District Court, challenges the county’s Immigrant Legal Services Fund, which was created in 2020 and last month received an additional $1.3 million from county commissioners. The program distributes funds to five nonprofit organizations that provide attorneys to people facing deportation.

Paxton, who is running for U.S. Senate, called the program “evil and wicked” and argued it is unconstitutional, saying it “serves no public purpose” and improperly directs taxpayer money to private groups. He asked the court to immediately block Harris County from disbursing more funds and to bar future allocations.

The lawsuit is the latest in a series of high-profile legal fights Paxton has brought against programs that support immigrants and abortion access. Earlier this year, the 15th Court of Appeals sided with Paxton in a similar case involving San Antonio’s funding for organizations assisting Texans seeking abortions out of state.

Harris County Attorney Christian Menefee said his office will defend the legal aid program, calling Paxton’s latest lawsuit “a cheap political stunt.”

“This program is perfectly legal,” Menefee said in a statement. “At a time when the president has unleashed ICE agents to terrorize immigrant neighborhoods, deport U.S. citizens, and trample the law, it’s shameful that Republican state officials are joining in instead of standing up for Texans.”

Harris County launched the Immigrant Legal Services Fund after becoming the largest county in the nation without a program to help undocumented residents secure legal representation. At the time, Austin, Dallas and San Antonio already had similar initiatives. The program was introduced by County Judge Lina Hidalgo and approved on a party-line vote.

“When you have a family at a deportation hearing and they don’t have an attorney, they’re deported at a much higher rate — like 90 percent of the time — compared to like 5 percent of the time when they do have an attorney,” Hidalgo said in 2020, according to the Houston Chronicle.

The county currently sends funds to five organizations: BakerRipley, the Galveston-Houston Immigrant Representation Project, Justice for All Immigrants, KIND, Inc. and the Refugee and Immigrant Center for Education and Legal Services.

Supporters say the program has become more important amid a rise in immigration enforcement. The Harris County Jail leads the nation in ICE detainers — requests from federal agents to hold individuals for possible deportation — as federal and state officials have increased enforcement under President Donald Trump.

Commissioner Rodney Ellis said after the October funding vote that the program helps stabilize families caught in immigration proceedings.

“Having access to legal representation not only improves case outcomes but helps keep families together,” Ellis said, according to the Houston Chronicle. “In a county as diverse as ours, local government must step up to safeguard safety, justice, and the people we serve.”

Massive Fire at Decommissioned Texas City Power Plant Sends Thick Smoke Across Region

Indira Zaldivar
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Massive Fire at Decommissioned Texas City Power Plant Sends Thick Smoke Across Region

A major overnight fire at a decommissioned Texas City power plant sent a towering column of smoke into the sky early Sunday, prompting a public safety alert and a multi-agency firefighting response.

Flames Erupt at PHR Peakers Plant

The fire broke out around 2:30 a.m. at the former PHR Peakers facility on the 5500 block of Highway 146, according to the Galveston County Sheriff’s Office. Photos from the scene showed heavy smoke pouring from the structure as fire engines surrounded the site.

Firefighters from Multiple Departments Respond

Officials said crews from Pearland, Bacliff, San Leon, and other Galveston County agencies worked through the morning to contain the blaze. The San Leon Volunteer Fire Department led the response, with support from several surrounding departments.

Smoke Plume Visible for Miles

The smoke grew so dense that it was visible on ABC13’s 13 Alert Radar as it drifted northeast over Galveston Bay. An ABC13 crew captured images of the plume rising high above Highway 146 and partially blocking the morning sun.

Public Safety Alert Issued

Residents in the area received mobile alerts urging them to avoid the smoke. Texas City firefighters said air monitoring showed safe air quality levels, but crews continued to work to fully control the incident.

More Details Expected

Officials expect to remain on scene throughout the morning. Our news partner ABC13 is continuing to gather updates as the situation develops.

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

Federal Agents Surge Into Charlotte for Immigration Operation

Michael Esparza
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Federal Agents Surge Into Charlotte for Immigration Operation

A wave of federal immigration agents deployed across Charlotte on Saturday, launching an enforcement push known internally as “Operation Charlotte’s Web.” The move sparked strong backlash from city and state leaders who say they were neither consulted nor supportive.

Residents Report Aggressive Arrests

Eyewitnesses captured multiple arrests by masked federal agents throughout the city. Paula Walker Coleman told ABC News she recorded agents detaining a woman and said officers reacted forcefully when her hand brushed against their vehicle. Other residents described being stopped repeatedly, including naturalized U.S. citizen Willy Aceituno, who said agents smashed his car window before releasing him once he showed proof of citizenship.

DHS Defends the Surge

A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security said the increased presence is intended to remove “public safety threats,” arguing that federal action is necessary when “sanctuary politicians won’t” cooperate. The operation is led by U.S. Customs and Border Protection commander-at-large Greg Bovino.

State and Local Leaders Push Back

North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein urged residents to record any “inappropriate behavior,” stressing that enforcement should focus on violent criminals and drug traffickers. Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles and other local officials issued a joint statement emphasizing that all residents deserve to feel safe “walking down the street, going to school, work or the grocery store.”

Local Police Not Participating

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department clarified that it is not involved in the federal operation and cannot assist with civil immigration warrants. Meanwhile, leaders in Asheville said their city may also be targeted and reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring all residents feel safe, regardless of immigration status.

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

Record warm temperatures possible ahead of better rain chances on Thursday

ABC13 Houston
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0
Record warm temperatures possible ahead of better rain chances on Thursday

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — This is about as warm as it gets in November, and it will get even warmer next week ahead of a powerful Pacific storm system that eventually brings us a chance for severe weather.

After mild temperatures in the low 60s this morning, highs will climb into the mid 80s and could be record tying or breaking for the city. We’ll continue to threaten heat records all the way through Wednesday.

When should we expect rain with next week’s storm system?

That powerful storm system should bring us a round of thunderstorms on Thursday. Given how warm and humid the air will be, it’s possible we could even have severe weather, but we’ve got plenty of time to sort out the details on that one. In the days ahead of its arrival, we can expect streamer showers to roll in from the Gulf, good enough for a 10-20% chance of rain. By the way, that sticky Gulf air will push both low and high temperatures into record warm territory.

Will it cool down behind those storms?

Yes, but it won’t be nearly as chilly as what we experienced with our last cold front. We are looking at lows in the 50s and highs in the 70s, which is closer to normal for this time of year.

What is happening in the tropics?

Tropical development is not expected in the Atlantic Basin over the next 7 days. For a thorough update and in-depth video on what’s happening in the tropics, head to our tropical update page.

13 ALERT RADAR MAPS:
Southeast Texas
Houston
Harris County
Galveston County
Montgomery/Walker/San Jacinto/Polk/Grimes Counties
Fort Bend/Wharton/Colorado Counties
Brazoria/Matagorda Counties

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

For more Houston headlines, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine!

Houston Breaks Ground on First 3D-Printed Home Community

Edward Saenz
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Houston Breaks Ground on First 3D-Printed Home Community

The city has broken ground on its first 3D-printed housing community, called Zuri Gardens, a 13-acre development near William P. Hobby Airport that will include 80 energy-efficient homes.

The initial phase uses a robotic arm to 3D-print the first story of each home with low-carbon concrete, while the upper structure will be built using more conventional methods, according to developer HiveASMBLD. The 10-inch-thick walls are engineered to resist termites, mold and extreme weather — important features in the Houston climate — and offer strong insulation to reduce long-term energy costs.

Homebuyers will find affordability integrated into the design: homes, approximately 1,360 square feet with two bedrooms and 2½ bathrooms, are expected to cost in the mid- to high-$200,000s. The development is targeting households making between 80% and 120% of the area’s median income.

To help reduce buyer costs, the City of Houston is providing as much as $125,000 in down-payment assistance, and a $1.8 million forgivable loan has been awarded through the municipal Affordable Home Development Program.

Zuri Gardens will also feature community amenities, including a pavilion, a five-acre park, more than 140 parking spaces and 3D-printed benches.

In a nod to sustainability, the development includes a near-carbon-zero cement made from repurposed pozzolan — elements that promise to minimize the project’s carbon footprint, according to Eco Material Technologies, which is supplying the building material.

Interest in the project is strong: more than 300 prospective buyers are already on a waitlist for the 80 homes.

Construction is expected to begin later this year, with full buildout projected to take approximately 18 months.

Google Announces $40 Billion Texas Expansion to Build AI Data Centers and Boost Workforce

Edward Saenz
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0
Google Announces $40 Billion Texas Expansion to Build AI Data Centers and Boost Workforce

Google will invest $40 billion in new data center infrastructure and workforce programs across Texas by 2027, a move the company says will support the growing demand for artificial intelligence and cloud computing.

The plan, announced Nov. 14, includes three new data centers — one in Armstrong County and two in Haskell County — along with expansions to Google’s existing campus in Midlothian and cloud operations in the Dallas region. The project is part of the company’s broader “Investing in America” initiative.

Google executives said the new facilities will rely on advanced air-cooling systems to reduce water use in drought-prone areas and will be supported by new clean-energy projects, including a solar-and-battery installation in Haskell County. The company also launched a $30 million Energy Impact Fund for Texas to support energy affordability efforts and plans to add more than 6,200 megawatts of power capacity through agreements with energy developers.

The investment is expected to create thousands of construction and long-term operational jobs. Google said it is partnering with the Electrical Training Alliance to expand training for current workers and provide apprenticeships for more than 1,700 Texans by 2030.

Gov. Greg Abbott called the project a “Texas-sized investment,” saying it will strengthen the state’s position as a leader in technology and energy infrastructure.

The announcement comes as tech companies compete to build out data-center capacity to support AI systems, a trend that has raised concerns about rising electricity demand and strain on local grids. Analysts say the scale of Google’s plan reflects both confidence in long-term AI growth and the challenges that accompany large-scale energy-intensive development.

Google also committed millions toward water conservation and agricultural initiatives in the state, including $2.6 million for water programs and $2 million for rural land-use projects. Construction on the first sites is expected to begin next year.

Galaxy Lights Returns: Space Center Houston Unveils Texas’ Largest Space-Themed Holiday Show

Indira Zaldivar
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0
Galaxy Lights Returns: Space Center Houston Unveils Texas’ Largest Space-Themed Holiday Show

HOUSTON — Space Center Houston is once again transforming the holidays into a cosmic celebration as Galaxy Lights returns November 15, 2025, through January 4, 2026. Now in its seventh year, the immersive light experience brings together space exploration, family tradition, and dazzling technology—this time with a brand-new presenting sponsor, Wellby Financial.

A New Partnership Lights the Way

This season marks the beginning of an expanded partnership between Space Center Houston and Wellby Financial, the Official Credit Union of Space Center Houston. The collaboration strengthens both organizations’ ties to the NASA Johnson Space Center community while elevating a beloved holiday experience.

“We’re thrilled to launch this season of Galaxy Lights with our presenting sponsor, Wellby Financial, where the season of giving meets purpose,” said William T. Harris, president and CEO of Space Center Houston.

Wellby Financial president and CEO Marty Pell said the partnership reflects Houston’s “spirit of exploration,” adding that Galaxy Lights celebrates both innovation and the city’s storied connection to space.

What to Expect at Galaxy Lights 2025

This year’s show blends holiday magic with NASA-inspired displays across Space Center Houston’s sprawling campus. Visitors can walk through a 200-foot LED tunnel, stand beneath a towering 30-foot Space Launch System rocket display, and snap photos beside Apollo-themed lantern installations.

Other crowd favorites return as well, including:

  • LED swings positioned beneath the historic 747 carrier aircraft at Independence Plaza
  • A crystal fireworks light show synchronized to an upbeat playlist
  • A 40-foot-tall, 100-foot-long shooting star installation
  • Daily screenings of the fan-favorite film “Holidays in Space”

A glowing replica of the lunar lander, illuminated for the season, is also among the standout pieces creating a dreamlike atmosphere for guests.

A Cozy Finale

Visitors can end the night around complimentary fire pits with hot cocoa and s’mores, or try Go for Launch, a new Starbase brew. The experience is designed for families, explorers, and space lovers of all ages.

Special Dates and Hours

Galaxy Lights Operating Hours:
Nov. 15, 2025 – Jan. 4, 2026
6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Low Sensory Nights:
Nov. 20, 2025
Jan. 5, 2026
Designed for guests who prefer a calmer, less stimulating environment.

New Year’s Eve Hours:
Dec. 31, 2025
6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Closed Dates:
Nov. 17–19
Nov. 27
Dec. 10
Dec. 24–25

Tickets

For admission prices and reservations, visit the official Galaxy Lights ticket page.

Wall Street Slides as AI and Crypto Stocks Retreat

Michael Esparza
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0
Wall Street Slides as AI and Crypto Stocks Retreat

Wall Street’s hottest stocks — from Nvidia to bitcoin-linked companies — dragged markets lower Friday as the S&P 500 headed for its second straight steep loss. The pullback follows warnings that prices had risen too far, too fast amid the AI investment boom.

Major Indexes Decline Again

The S&P 500 fell 1.2% in early trading, adding to one of its worst drops since spring. Even so, the index remains within 3.3% of the record it set just weeks ago. The Dow dropped 582 points, and the Nasdaq slid 1.5%, extending Thursday’s global sell-off.

AI Leaders Lose Altitude

Nvidia, the face of the artificial intelligence frenzy, slipped 2.2%. Despite the drop, it’s still up 36% this year after several years of explosive growth. Investors are now bracing for Nvidia’s earnings report next week, which could swing the broader market given the company’s massive influence on the S&P 500.

Bitcoin and Crypto Stocks Tumble

Bitcoin fell below $96,000, retreating to levels last seen in May after peaking near $125,000 in October. The decline pulled down crypto-related companies: Strategy fell 4%, Coinbase dropped 3.1%, and Robinhood slid 3.6%.

Walmart Drops on CEO Exit

Outside tech and crypto, Walmart shares sank 2.4% after announcing that longtime CEO Doug McMillon will retire in January. McMillon oversaw the retailer’s significant shift into technology and e-commerce.

Interest Rate Uncertainty Adds Pressure

Markets are also grappling with questions about the Federal Reserve’s next steps. Treasury yields have eased this year as the Fed cut rates twice, but doubts are growing about another cut in December. With inflation still above 2% and the recent government shutdown delaying key economic data, some Fed officials say they may need to wait for more clarity.

Global Markets Join the Sell-Off

Overseas markets mirrored the downturn. South Korea’s Kospi plummeted 3.8%, while Germany’s DAX fell 1.8%, underscoring broader worries about high valuations and slowing growth.

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

Native American Woman Nearly Deported After ICE Error

Indira Zaldivar
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0
Native American Woman Nearly Deported After ICE Error

A 24-year-old Native American woman from Phoenix was nearly deported after being swept up in President Donald Trump’s renewed immigration crackdown. Leticia Jacobo, a member of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, was mistakenly issued an ICE detainer despite being a U.S. citizen. Her family says racial profiling played a role.

Arrest Leads to Wrongful ICE Hold

Jacobo had been arrested in September for allegedly driving with a suspended license and was scheduled for release on Nov. 11. But hours before she was set to go home, her mother was told she would instead be transferred to federal custody for possible deportation. The family was unaware an ICE detainer had been placed on her more than a week earlier.

Her aunt, Maria Nunez, said they were stunned to hear that deportation was imminent. “How is she going to get deported if she’s a Native American?” she recalled asking jail staff.

Family Intervenes Overnight

Jacobo’s mother rushed her birth certificate to the jail and stayed overnight to ensure her daughter wasn’t removed. Jacobo was released in the early hours of Nov. 12 once staff acknowledged the error.

Sheriff’s Office Calls It ‘Human Error’

Lt. Mark Chance of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office said the detainer was intended for someone else and described the mix-up as a “silly” mistake. He said internal discussions would follow.

But Nunez questioned that explanation, pointing out that Jacobo had tribal identification on her, had been fingerprinted, and had previous interactions with the same jail. She believes discrimination was involved and said the family may pursue legal action.

Broader Concerns Over ICE Targeting Native Americans

The incident adds to growing concerns among Native communities who say they’ve been unfairly targeted during Trump’s mass deportation initiative. Though Native Americans have been U.S. citizens since 1924, tribes in Arizona and New Mexico have reported ICE questioning and detaining citizens who fit racial profiles.

Congressional Democrats earlier this year urged the administration to stop targeting Indigenous communities, and a federal inquiry was launched last month into misconduct allegations involving the wrongful detainment of U.S. citizens.

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

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