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Small but heavy showers popping up in some parts of Houston

ABC13 Houston
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Small but heavy showers popping up in some parts of Houston

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Wednesday’s weather will be very similar to Tuesday’s. The day will start off rain-free, then after temperatures climb into the low 90s, a few small but heavy rain showers could again pop up over parts of Houston.

Ozone pollution could also be an issue in some Houston-area neighborhoods from around 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Are there any decent rain chances over the next 10 days?

Not at this time. Rain chances this week are at 30% or less, but we could see a little boost in the rain chance early next week depending upon what happens with the upper-level circulation associated with Pacific storm Mario. There are signs that circulation in the upper atmosphere could rotate around a heat ridge and into Texas early next week. If that happens, it would increase our rain chances.

When does fall begin?

The autumnal equinox is on Monday, September 22, marking the end of astronomical summer and the beginning of astronomical fall. Meteorological Fall began on September 1st.

What is happening in the tropics?

Tropical depression Seven has formed in the central Atlantic and a tropical wave emerging off the coast of Africa could develop as it heads westward toward the Caribbean. 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.

Houston Neighborhood on Edge After False Kidnapping Report

Que Onda Editorial
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Houston Neighborhood on Edge After False Kidnapping Report

A southeast Houston community spent Tuesday on high alert after reports of a child being abducted near an elementary school—only for police to later confirm no kidnapping occurred.

Morning Panic at Lewis Elementary

The scare began around 7 a.m. when Houston police responded to a call of a girl allegedly taken outside Lewis Elementary. Multiple agencies, including Houston ISD police and the FBI, joined the search.

Heavy Police Presence and Shifting Leads

Officers canvassed the Glenbrook Valley neighborhood, spoke with residents, and reviewed surveillance footage. Initial reports focused on a dark sedan before attention turned to a black SUV. Despite hours of investigation, authorities found no evidence of a crime.

Investigation Points to Misunderstanding

By late afternoon, Houston police announced that no child had been kidnapped. Sources suggested a possible incident between adults may have been misinterpreted as an abduction during busy school drop-off, but officials have not confirmed any related domestic dispute.

Community Relieved but Concerned

Residents expressed surprise after the intense, daylong response ended without a crime. Houston police have not released further details.

For Houston’s latest headlines, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Two Men Found Dead in Separate Mississippi Hangings

Indira Zaldivar
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Two Men Found Dead in Separate Mississippi Hangings

Authorities are investigating two unrelated deaths after men were found hanging from trees in different Mississippi cities on the same day.

Delta State University Student Identified

Demartravion “Trey” Reed, 21, of Grenada, was discovered hanging near Delta State University’s pickleball courts early Monday, Sept. 15. Campus police were alerted at 7:05 a.m., and the Bolivar County Coroner arrived shortly after. Officials say the death was a suicide and found no signs of foul play.

No Signs of Assault

The coroner’s office reported no fractures, wounds, or injuries suggesting an attack. Reed’s body will undergo an autopsy at the Mississippi State Crime Lab.

Second Death in Vicksburg

Later that day, around 1:30 p.m., Cory Zukatis, 36, of Brandon, was found hanging in a wooded area near Ameristar Casino in Vicksburg. Police described him as a white male who was reportedly homeless. His case remains under investigation, but authorities do not believe the two deaths are connected.

Campus Support for Students

Delta State canceled classes Monday and offered peer counseling at the H.L. Nowell Student Union, along with prayer and meditation services at Lena Sillers Chapel.

Need Help?

For 24/7 confidential support, call or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org.

Claudia Sheinbaum Leads Historic Mexican Independence Day Celebration

Indira Zaldivar
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Claudia Sheinbaum Leads Historic Mexican Independence Day Celebration

Mexico marked its 215th Independence Day with a milestone Monday night as President Claudia Sheinbaum became the first woman to lead the nation’s most important civic ceremony. Before a crowd packed into Mexico City’s Zócalo, Sheinbaum delivered the traditional “Cry of Independence” from the National Palace balcony, honoring the 1810 uprising that began Mexico’s fight for freedom.

Breaking a Century-Old Tradition

Since the 19th century, Mexico’s Independence Day gala had been led only by men.

“The fact that it’s a woman who gives the cry does represent a substantial change,” said Alfredo Ávila, a historian at the National Autonomous University of Mexico, noting the celebration’s long patriarchal history.

Sheinbaum, a former Mexico City mayor and scientist, took office as Mexico’s first female president on Oct. 1, 2024.

A Night of Cheers and Fireworks

Shouts of “Long live freedom, equality, and justice!” echoed across the square as Sheinbaum rang the historic bell, followed by the cathedral’s chimes and a national anthem singalong. Across the country, families honored the occasion with fireworks, music, and traditional foods such as pozole and chiles en nogada.

Security Concerns Temper Festivities

While Mexico City celebrated in full, violence forced several municipalities in Michoacán and Sinaloa to scale back events. In Sinaloa, where cartel factions have clashed for over a year, authorities limited activities to a single civic ceremony involving government and military officials.

Follow along with the top headlines from Mexico with Que Onda Magazine.

Judge Drops Two Charges in UnitedHealthcare CEO Killing Case

Que Onda Editorial
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Judge Drops Two Charges in UnitedHealthcare CEO Killing Case

A New York state judge dismissed two criminal counts against Luigi Mangione on Tuesday, though the 27-year-old remains charged with second-degree murder in the December 2024 shooting of UnitedHealthcare chief executive Brian Thompson. Justice Gregory Carro announced the decision in Manhattan Supreme Court as Mangione appeared in handcuffs and tan prison clothing.

Background of the Case

Thompson was shot outside a Midtown Manhattan hotel on December 4, 2024, during an investor conference for UnitedHealth Group’s insurance unit. Mangione has pleaded not guilty to both state and federal charges stemming from the killing and remains in federal custody in Brooklyn. Trial dates have not been set.

Public Reaction and Supporters

Outside the courthouse, a small group of demonstrators gathered to support Mangione. Some wore “Free Luigi” T-shirts, waved the Italian tricolor marked with “Healthcare is a human right,” and even dressed as the Nintendo character Luigi. Inside, about two dozen spectators—mostly young women—filled the courtroom seats.

Political Violence Concerns

The case comes amid heightened fears of politically motivated violence following the recent killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk in Utah. Officials across party lines have condemned both incidents, though Mangione has gained an unusual following among critics of high healthcare costs.

Next Steps

Mangione continues to face serious charges in both state and federal court. The judge’s dismissal of two counts does not affect the central murder charge, and no trial date has been scheduled.

For more updates, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Harris County Democrats reject rule aimed at Whitmire’s GOP fundraiser appearance

Edward Saenz
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Harris County Democrats reject rule aimed at Whitmire’s GOP fundraiser appearance

The Harris County Democratic Party narrowly voted down a proposal that would have barred elected Democrats from endorsing or raising money for Republicans, a measure prompted by Houston Mayor John Whitmire’s appearance at a fundraiser for U.S. Rep. Dan Crenshaw earlier this year.

The rule change was debated after some precinct chairs criticized Whitmire, a longtime Democrat, for participating in the Republican congressman’s event. Supporters of the measure argued that elected Democrats should not be seen boosting members of the opposing party, while opponents said the proposal amounted to overreach.

Party Chair Mike Doyle said he was concerned the rule could complicate officials’ participation in bipartisan or nonpartisan events. “We have to be careful not to tie the hands of our elected leaders in ways that might hurt the county,” Doyle said.

Whitmire, who spent decades in the Texas Senate before winning the Houston mayor’s office last year, defended his appearance at the fundraiser as part of maintaining relationships across the aisle. His critics say the move risks alienating Democratic voters who expect party unity ahead of the 2026 elections.

Although the proposal failed, precinct chairs who supported it said they intend to keep pushing for stronger standards on party loyalty.

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo says she won’t seek third term

Edward Saenz
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Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo says she won’t seek third term

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo announced this week that she will not seek a third term, ending months of speculation about her political future and clearing the way for a crowded 2026 race to succeed her.

Hidalgo, first elected in 2018 at age 27, said she was honoring a promise to voters to serve only two terms. She denied rumors that she planned to challenge U.S. Rep. Sylvia Garcia in the 29th Congressional District and instead voiced support for the Houston Democrat.

In an interview with the Houston Chronicle Hidalgo said, “After that, I don’t know. I don’t know what I will do. I know that I’m not running for office this cycle. I can say that with confidence and I know that I will stay in public service.”

Her tenure as the county’s top executive has been marked by partisan clashes on Commissioners Court over tax rates, budget priorities and early childhood education programs. Hidalgo also took a temporary leave in 2023 to receive treatment for clinical depression, later returning to complete her term.

The announcement sets up a competitive 2026 race in the state’s most populous county. On the Democratic side, former Houston Mayor Annise Parker, City Council member Letitia Plummer and educator Erica Lee Carter have signaled interest. Republican candidates include firefighter union president Marty Lancton and Piney Point Village Mayor Aliza Dutt.

Hidalgo, whose current term ends in December 2026, said she remains committed to public service but has not decided on her next role.

Texas Law Targets AI-Generated Child Exploitation Images, Sparks Free Speech Concerns

Edward Saenz
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Texas Law Targets AI-Generated Child Exploitation Images, Sparks Free Speech Concerns

A new Texas law that took effect this month criminalizes the possession, promotion or production of obscene visual material that appears to depict children, including artificial intelligence-generated images and animated depictions.

Senate Bill 20, authored by Republican Sen. Pete Flores, creates a new offense in the state penal code aimed at closing what supporters call a loophole in child exploitation laws. The measure makes it a state jail felony to knowingly access or distribute obscene material that appears to show a person under 18 engaged in sexual conduct. Penalties escalate to second- or third-degree felonies for repeat offenders.

Supporters of the law say it addresses the rise of computer-generated child sexual abuse material that previously fell outside existing statutes.

“We have to adapt our laws to protect children in the digital age,” Flores said when the measure advanced earlier this year.

But critics warn the law’s language is vague and could be used to target artistic works. The statute applies to any image that “appears to depict” a minor, raising concerns among artists, manga creators and anime enthusiasts who fear certain content could fall under the ban.

First Amendment advocates also note the law could be challenged in court, citing U.S. Supreme Court precedent that struck down similar federal provisions in 2002. The Texas Public Radio network reported that vendors at anime conventions have already begun removing material they fear might draw legal scrutiny.

Gov. Greg Abbott signed SB 20 into law earlier this year, and it became effective Sept. 1 alongside more than 800 new state laws. Legal experts expect the measure to face tests in the courts as prosecutors begin to apply its provisions.

Trump’s Tariffs Trigger Broad Price Hikes

Michael Esparza
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Trump’s Tariffs Trigger Broad Price Hikes

President Donald Trump’s new tariffs—10% on most imports and higher “reciprocal” rates on select goods—are prompting a wave of price increases across U.S. retail and manufacturing. Companies say they must offset rising costs on everything from steel to luxury handbags.

Major Retailers Pass Costs to Shoppers

Walmart, Target, Macy’s, and Home Depot each warned of selective or broad price hikes. Walmart’s CEO said the increases are “more than any retailer can absorb,” while Target and Macy’s are raising prices on produce and apparel. Home Depot expects “modest price movement” in certain imported categories.

Apparel and Footwear Feel the Pinch

Adidas plans U.S. price hikes after heavy tariff losses, while Nike is preparing “surgical” increases to counter an expected $1 billion in added costs. Columbia Sportswear and Hermès have also announced U.S.-only increases, citing uncertainty over ongoing trade negotiations.

Automakers Raise Vehicle Prices

Ford, Volkswagen, and Ferrari are adjusting prices as 25% tariffs on cars and parts drive manufacturing costs up by thousands per vehicle. Ford has already raised prices on models built in Mexico, and Volkswagen signaled increases by summer.

Electronics and Luxury Goods Affected

Camera makers Nikon, Canon, and Leica have enacted or scheduled price adjustments. Swiss watchmaker Swatch plans hikes up to 15%, even releasing a satirical “WHAT IF…TARIFFS?” watch. Nintendo raised prices on older consoles and accessories, warning more changes may follow.

Consumer Goods and Food Companies React

Conagra expects higher costs for ingredients like tinplate steel and cocoa, hinting at food price hikes. Procter & Gamble, maker of Tide and Charmin, is evaluating brand-by-brand increases. Fast-fashion giants Shein and Temu announced U.S. price jumps after losing a key low-value import exemption.

Economists Warn of Wider Impact

Experts caution that Trump’s unpredictable trade policy could fuel broader inflation. With tariffs now biting across multiple sectors, shoppers should brace for rising prices throughout 2025.

Stay informed on the aftermath of Trump’s tariffs with Que Onda Magazine.

US Launches Second Deadly Strike on Alleged Venezuelan Drug Boat

Edward Saenz
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US Launches Second Deadly Strike on Alleged Venezuelan Drug Boat

President Donald Trump announced a second U.S. military strike on a vessel he claimed was carrying cocaine and fentanyl from Venezuela toward the United States.

The operation, conducted in international waters, killed three men and left “big bags of cocaine and fentanyl” floating in the ocean, Trump told reporters. He said no U.S. forces were harmed and warned traffickers that the U.S. is “hunting” anyone moving drugs that can harm Americans.

Legal and Political Disputes

The strike follows an earlier Sept. 2 attack that killed 11 people. Trump has classified drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations, a move his administration argues allows the military to use lethal force usually reserved for counterterrorism. Critics, including Republican Sen. Rand Paul, question whether such actions are lawful or amount to war crimes. The White House has not publicly shared its legal justification.

Unclear Details and International Reactions

Video posted by Trump shows a small boat exploding in black smoke, though officials have not confirmed whether a drone carried out the strike. Venezuela’s interior minister denied the crew were traffickers or part of the Tren de Aragua gang. Earlier this month, U.S. personnel boarded another Venezuelan fishing boat but found no contraband.

Military Buildup in the Region

Trump has increased U.S. military presence near Venezuela, deploying eight Navy ships, 10 F-35 fighter jets, and at least one MQ-9 Reaper drone. His counterterrorism adviser said the terrorist designation of cartels “opens up options” for the military, signaling more potential strikes ahead.

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

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