HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Houston got all the way up to a new record high of 96 on Wednesday, and it should heat right back up toward 96 on Thursday. The humidity is also expected to be slightly higher, pushing the heat index “feels like temp” between 100-105 degrees in the mid afternoon.
It will feel very muggy Thursday morning with temperatures only dropping into the mid 70s for lows. We should see the temperatures easily clear the record high of 94 in 2018.
How much longer will this heat stick around?
Until October. Kidding. Sort of. It will likely feel hotter this weekend as the afternoon humidity continues to increase, pushing the heat index toward 105 as the temperatures rise into the mid 90s each day. We are seeing signs that a weak front may be able to slip in here around Wednesday or Thursday of next week, which could take the edge off that humidity. If we do get a humidity drop, the mornings would feel more pleasant but it would still heat up above 90 in the afternoon.
The earliest we see that happening is next Tuesday, and it’s just a 10% chance at this time. If that weak front rolls into Houston on Wednesday, then we could see the rain chance climb higher than the 20% chance we have now.
HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — The Houston Police Department has finally released a cache of internal documents exposing the controversial practice of suspending thousands of criminal investigations, many involving serious offenses, due to staffing shortages.
These records, obtained only after a lengthy public information request battle, include revealing internal communications leading up to a Friday night social media post in which HPD admitted it had failed to investigate a significant number of sexual assault cases.
The fallout would soon lead to intense scrutiny and top-level resignations, including Chief Troy Finner, who retired exactly one year ago.
But the story goes deeper.
In February of last year, then-Chief Finner publicly expressed frustration over unsolved adult sex crime cases, initially estimating around 4,000 affected reports. But within days, that number exploded to more than 260,000 cases across a wide range of crimes, robbery, theft, and assaults that were never investigated. The scandal would lead to Finner’s retirement and trigger a sweeping internal affairs investigation.
Now, 13 Investigates has obtained those internal statements.
One lieutenant from the Special Victims Division revealed he was aware of the controversial case-suspension code as far back as 2016, and was never told to stop until last year. This directly contradicts Finner’s assertion that he ordered the practice to stop in 2021.
Several other commanders also contradicted statements made by the chief and his assistant chiefs, further muddying the department’s timeline of accountability. Another statement revealed that a 2016 state audit flagged concerns about the suspension code, but no corrective action was taken.
The more than 100 pages of documents detail exactly who knew what, and when. HPD fought hard to keep them out of public view.
“It’s been over a year since I first requested them,” said 13 Investigates producer Sarah Rafique, who filed the records request in April 2024. Despite the Texas Attorney General ordering HPD to release the records in June, it wasn’t until nearly a year later, just before 6 p.m. Wednesday evening, that the documents finally appeared in Rafique’s inbox.
“It just shows they did not want this information to get out,” said Rafique. “They were trying to withhold public information that is of interest to everyone.”
The documents offer a rare look into how senior leadership responded to the fallout and tried to protect themselves.
HPD referred 13 Investigates to the department’s final report on the matter, in response to a request for comment.
Mayor John Whitmire told 13 Investigates, “In my administration, officers were told to end codes as soon as they were discovered. Immediately.”
Mexico’s security chief confirmed Tuesday that 17 relatives of cartel leaders crossed into the United States last week as part of an arrangement between a son of the former Sinaloa Cartel boss and the Trump administration.
Security Secretary Omar García Harfuch confirmed a report by independent journalist Luis Chaparro that relatives of Ovidio Guzmán López — extradited to the U.S. in 2023 — entered the country. Guzmán López is one of the sons of Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán who remained in control of a Sinaloa Cartel faction after his father’s imprisonment in the U.S.
Video footage showed the family members walking across the border from Tijuana, carrying suitcases, where they were met by U.S. agents.
Speculation had mounted last week that Guzmán López might plead guilty to avoid trial on multiple drug trafficking charges following his extradition.
In a radio interview, García Harfuch said it was evident the family’s crossing was linked to negotiations between Guzmán López and the U.S. government. He noted the cartel figure had reportedly been cooperating with U.S. authorities, including providing information on rival criminal organizations.
“It is clear his family is going to the U.S. as part of a negotiation or offer from the Department of Justice,” García Harfuch said.
He added that none of the family members were wanted by Mexican authorities and that the Trump administration was obligated to share relevant information with Mexican prosecutors — something that has yet to happen.
The confirmation came on the same day the U.S. Attorney General’s Office announced it was charging several top cartel leaders with “narcoterrorism,” marking the first such charges since the Trump administration designated several cartels as foreign terrorist organizations.
Though U.S. prosecutors declined to comment on the video showing the family’s crossing, U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon of the Southern District of California issued a stark warning to cartel members, specifically naming the Sinaloa Cartel.
“To the leaders of the Sinaloa Cartel — you are no longer the hunters, you are the hunted,” Gordon said. “You will be betrayed by your friends, hounded by your enemies, and ultimately you will find yourself in a courtroom in the Southern District of California.”
An unusually intense heat wave is sweeping into Houston this week, bringing summer-like temperatures that are more typical of July than mid-May. With highs expected to challenge or break long-standing records, it’s crucial to take precautions to stay healthy and hydrated during this stretch of extreme weather.
Record-Breaking Temperatures Ahead
Starting Tuesday, Houstonians will experience an early-morning warmth that builds rapidly into the afternoon. Temperatures are forecast to reach the low 90s by midday and climb into the mid-90s by late afternoon, according to our news partners at ABC13 Houston. Forecasters expect Houston to potentially tie a record high of 94 degrees set in 1907.
The heat isn’t just here for a day or two—it’s expected to persist through at least next Tuesday. As the humidity rises beginning Wednesday, the heat index (or “feels like” temperature) will likely reach between 100 and 105 degrees. Wednesday may mark the hottest day of the week, with actual temperatures projected to hit 97 degrees. If that holds, it would be the earliest date on record for Houston to hit 97, beating a previous milestone set in 2011.
Meanwhile, areas to the west—such as Austin, San Antonio, and the Hill Country—could see temperatures soar into the 105 to 110 degree range, potentially breaking all-time May heat records.
Little to No Rain Expected
The oppressive heat is being driven by a strong high-pressure ridge, which is not only heating the region but also keeping rain away. Forecasters say there’s little chance of rain throughout the week, with only a slight possibility of isolated showers heading into the weekend.
Tips for Staying Healthy During the Heat Wave
Hydrate Constantly Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can contribute to dehydration.
Limit Outdoor Activity Try to stay indoors during peak heat hours between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. If you must be outside, take frequent breaks in the shade and wear light-colored, breathable clothing.
Never Leave Children or Pets in Cars Interior car temperatures can climb to dangerous levels within minutes. Always check the back seat before locking your car, and never leave pets unattended.
Cool Down Your Home Use fans and air conditioning if possible. Keep curtains or blinds closed during the day to block out heat. If you don’t have access to AC, consider visiting a public place such as a mall, library, or cooling center.
Check on Vulnerable Individuals Older adults, young children, and people with chronic health conditions are at greater risk for heat-related illnesses. Make sure they’re staying cool and drinking enough fluids.
Know the Signs of Heat Illness Watch for symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, rapid pulse, headache, and confusion. If you or someone else shows signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, seek medical help immediately.
As this unseasonably intense heat wave settles over Houston, staying informed and taking the right precautions can help prevent serious health issues. Keep an eye on the forecast, look out for each other, and stay cool.
With three weeks left, lawmakers juggle property tax relief, school funding, and divisive social issues—hoping to avoid a special session.
Deadline Crunch
As the Texas Legislature nears its June 2 adjournment, major priorities remain unresolved. While Gov. Greg Abbott has secured a school voucher win, battles over abortion, property taxes, teacher pay, and religious expression in schools are far from over.
The House must pass its own bills by Thursday, and Senate bills must clear House committees by May 24. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick’s social agenda—Ten Commandments in classrooms, school prayer, and stricter library rules—has committee support but awaits floor votes.
Conservative Bills Face Hurdles
Lawmakers are weighing fines for abortion pill distribution and bans on city programs that help Texans travel out of state for abortions. Critics say some proposals are unconstitutional.
Other stalled bills would limit public restroom access by gender and expand bans on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies in K-12 schools. “Never say never,” said Ken Armbrister, a former legislative aide to Gov. Rick Perry, noting last-minute maneuvering can revive stalled legislation.
Tax Relief and Teacher Pay in Sight
The House and Senate struck a deal to raise the homestead exemption to $140,000—$200,000 for seniors and disabled Texans—and increase business inventory tax breaks. That paved the way for a $7.7 billion school funding package, though chambers still disagree on how to allocate raises.
Sen. Brandon Creighton’s revised House Bill 2 proposes structured raises in teachers’ third and fifth years. A committee hearing is set for Thursday.
Abortion Exception Clarity, Water Funding Advance
Senate Bill 31, with bipartisan support, would clarify when abortions are legal under current law to better protect physicians and patients. It has passed committee and awaits a vote.
Meanwhile, lawmakers are pushing a constitutional amendment dedicating $1 billion annually for a decade to address the state’s water crisis, though debates continue over how funds should be spent.
Potential Special Session Triggers
Abbott may call a special session if issues like bail reform or THC regulation remain unresolved. A new House bail bill would let judges deny bail for violent crimes, with safeguards to protect due process—possibly breaking a long-standing impasse.
Patrick, meanwhile, wants a ban on hemp-derived THC products. The House prefers regulating them with age limits and vape restrictions.
Clock’s Ticking
“The system is set up to kill stuff, not to pass stuff,” Armbrister told The Texas Tribune. Still, with the session’s end in sight, lawmakers must choose between compromise—or a return to Austin this summer.
Sharaa, a former al Qaeda affiliate who rose to power after ousting Bashar al-Assad, was seen shaking hands with Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
Trump called on Syria to join the Abraham Accords, which normalized relations between Israel and several Arab states.
“I hope you’re going to join when it’s straightened out,” Trump said, adding that Sharaa acknowledged the need for reform before such a move.
Sanctions Lifted, Rebuilding Begins
In a dramatic shift in U.S. policy, Trump announced the lifting of all sanctions on Syria. The move aims to open the door to humanitarian aid and foreign investment as the country begins recovery from years of civil war.
Saudi Arabia expressed strong support, with Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan citing investment opportunities and backing for Syria’s economic revival.
Israeli Concerns Grow
Trump’s outreach to Syria and the possibility of nuclear talks with Iran have triggered unease in Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, which sees Iran and Syria as existential threats, remains skeptical of Sharaa’s Islamist background, despite his renunciation of al Qaeda in 2016.
Qatar Relations Restored with Major Boeing Deal
Trump’s next stop was Doha, marking the first visit to Qatar by a U.S. president in 23 years. In a show of renewed ties, Qatar Airways agreed to purchase 160 Boeing aircraft worth over $200 billion. The U.S. and Qatar also signed new defense agreements.
This visit comes after years of strained relations, during which Trump supported a regional blockade on Qatar. Now, he described the U.S.-Qatar relationship as reaching “another level,” alongside Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani.
Saudi Commits $600 Billion Investment in U.S.
The visit also secured a $600 billion investment pledge from Saudi Arabia into the U.S. economy, along with $142 billion in arms deals. These agreements highlight Trump’s strategy of bolstering U.S. economic and diplomatic interests through closer ties with Gulf nations.
The Trump-Sharaa meeting will be followed by talks between Syria’s foreign minister and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. With sanctions lifted and diplomacy reshaping alliances, the Middle East enters a new phase of potential cooperation—and renewed tension.
For more updates on Trump’s Middle East trip, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.
HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — A large fire ripped through a building at an apartment complex Wednesday morning in southwest Houston.
ABC13 first heard a call at about 5:30 a.m. from emergency responders for fire coming from the building in the 3900 block of Synott Road at Ashford Point.
Views from SkyEye showed flames pouring through the roof and firefighters on ladder trucks working to douse them. Houston TranStar cameras at one point showed thick, black smoke barreling into the sky.
Despite that, the fire was contained to one building at the complex, affecting 24 units, said Houston Fire Department Asst. Chief James Campbell, adding two other buildings had slight damage, but the flames didn’t spread.
More than 100 firefighters were on scene.
No one was hurt.
Floors and the roof of the building collapsed, Campbell said.
HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — The unusual May heat wave underway over Texas cranks up another notch Wednesday, and it will be made worse by an increase in humidity.
The strong Gulf breeze will not only transport in higher humidity Wednesday morning, it will also keep temperatures from cooling much below the mid 70s. Houston got all the way up to a new record high of 95 on Tuesday, and it will be even hotter on Wednesday afternoon with the record high of 93 predicted to get smashed. When it hits 97 around 3 p.m., the temperature will feel more like it’s between 100-105 because of that more humid air.
A Heat Advisory begins at Noon and lasts until 7 p.m. for Brazos, Burleson and Washington counties.
What’s the hottest it will get this week, and how long will it stick around?
Well, it’s going to feel more like the middle of July than the middle of May. We predict record highs in the mid-90s will be challenged, tied, or broken today through at least Wednesday of next week. That’s right, a solid week of heat in record territory. Additionally, it will be humid enough starting Wednesday to push the heat index up to between 100 to 105 degrees well into next week. The hottest day of the week is likely going to be Wednesday, when we are predicting a record-breaking high of 97. If that verifies, it will be the earliest in the calendar year Houston has ever observed 97, breaking the old record from 2011 by 12 days. We are seeing a strong signal to our west around Austin and San Antonio that triple-digit heat will occur several days this week, and all-time record highs for May could even fall around the Hill Country. That’s where temperatures could peak between 105-110 degrees! Stay tuned.
Does this mean we won’t get any rain this week?
Bingo. This type of heat usually means a heat ridge is pushing the storm track away from us. The stormy pattern of the last two weeks is now over, and it won’t be until around the middle of next week that we’ll see a 20% chance of rain return.
After spending 35 years in prison for the high-profile 1989 murders of their parents, Erik and Lyle Menendez were resentenced Tuesday to 50 years to life, making them immediately eligible for parole. The move marks a major development in the brothers’ decades-long legal battle and ongoing efforts to gain their freedom.
Originally sentenced to life without the possibility of parole, the Menendez brothers were convicted of killing Jose and Kitty Menendez in their Beverly Hills mansion—a crime that shocked the nation and captivated public attention for years. With this new sentence, they now join a growing number of inmates eligible for release under recent California justice reforms.
Expressions of Remorse and a Push for Redemption
During the resentencing hearing, held virtually with the brothers appearing from prison, both Erik and Lyle Menendez addressed the court with emotional statements.
“I killed my mom and dad,” Lyle admitted candidly. “I give no excuses.” He went on to confess to perjury during his initial trials and apologized for the lies that had compounded his family’s trauma. His brother Erik echoed that tone, saying, “I committed an atrocious act… My actions were criminal, selfish and cowardly.”
He added, “I have come a long way on this path of redemption. I will not stop trying to make a difference.”
Following the hearing, Erik Menendez released a written statement: “This has to be the first step in giving people who have no hope in prison some hope. That possibility that rehabilitation works is more important than anything that happened to me today.”
Family and Legal Support
More than 20 family members supported the resentencing request, including their cousin Anamaria Baralt, who testified on their behalf. Fighting back tears, she urged the court to allow the brothers a chance to reunite with their aging relatives.
“They are very different men than when they committed the murders,” Baralt said. “Their transformation is remarkable.”
Defense attorney Mark Geragos, who has long represented the Menendez brothers, declared the hearing a breakthrough.
“There are no two better candidates in the state of California right now for resentencing than Erik and Lyle Menendez,” Geragos said outside the courtroom. “It’s a unicorn-style situation: horrific crimes, yes, but also unprecedented rehabilitation.”
A retired judge also testified in favor of the brothers, saying their example had changed his outlook on inmate reform. “Because of them, I now believe in rehabilitation,” he stated, describing them as respected figures who help fellow inmates and the elderly.
Prosecution Pushback and Parole Concerns
Despite the ruling, the case remains contentious. Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan Hochman, who succeeded George Gascón after his failed re-election bid, filed a motion to reverse the resentencing—calling the brothers’ claims of self-defense part of “a litany of lies.” Judge Michael Jesic ultimately denied that request.
Following Tuesday’s decision, Hochman issued a statement saying, “This case… must be viewed with a critical eye,” emphasizing the need for transparency and a full accounting of the facts.
A recent risk assessment conducted by the California Board of Parole—at the request of Governor Gavin Newsom—rated the brothers as a “moderate risk” if released. The evaluation, part of a separate clemency track, noted the brothers’ involvement in several prison violations over the years, including illegal cellphone possession—most recently by Erik in January of this year.
Still, their disciplinary record has shown improvement. Lyle Menendez has no history of violent behavior behind bars, and Erik’s only infraction involving violence dates back 25 years.
Looking Ahead
The brothers’ fight for freedom now turns to a parallel clemency effort. Their next hearing is scheduled for June 13, when the court will consider arguments stemming from the parole board’s risk assessment. Meanwhile, Governor Newsom retains the authority to grant clemency independently of the resentencing process.
Whether parole or clemency, Erik and Lyle Menendez remain determined to prove that their decades in prison have not been in vain—and that their future lies beyond prison walls.
President Donald Trump began his highly anticipated Middle East tour on Tuesday with a diplomatic and economic milestone: the signing of a broad agreement package with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
The visit marks Trump’s first stop on a four-day regional trip focused on strengthening alliances and brokering deals with key partners in the region.
A Warm Welcome from the Saudi Crown Prince
Trump received an enthusiastic reception upon arrival at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, where Crown Prince Mohammed personally greeted him. The two leaders exchanged pleasantries, with Trump later remarking, “I really believe we like each other a lot.” Their rapport set the tone for a day of high-level meetings and strategic agreements.
Over a Dozen Agreements Signed
The U.S. and Saudi Arabia finalized more than a dozen deals aimed at boosting collaboration across several sectors. These include increased coordination between the two countries’ militaries, closer ties between justice departments, and new partnerships in cultural and educational institutions. The agreements reflect mutual interests in bolstering security and economic engagement amid rising regional tensions.
Iran and Gaza Loom in the Background
While the focus of the trip is on diplomacy and commerce, regional challenges continue to cast a shadow. Both leaders voiced concern over Iran’s nuclear ambitions and the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Although no new policy announcements were made on those fronts, the issues remain central to U.S.-Saudi discussions.
Potential Detour to Turkey Over Ukraine War
Trump also touched on the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, hinting at a possible visit to Turkey later this week. Presidents Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelenskyy are expected to meet in Istanbul on Thursday to discuss a potential peace framework. Trump suggested he might intervene in person “if my presence could help.”
Qatar’s Lavish Gift Sparks Ethics Questions
In a separate development, Trump revealed that the ruling family of Qatar has offered him a luxury Boeing 747-8 jumbo jet—a gesture he appears ready to accept. The plane, which U.S. officials say could be retrofitted into a presidential aircraft, has already drawn scrutiny and raised ethical concerns over the propriety of foreign gifts to a sitting U.S. president.
As Trump continues his tour through the region, attention will remain fixed on both the deals he seals and the broader geopolitical implications of his diplomacy in one of the world’s most volatile areas.
