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Tropical Storm Chantal Forms Off Southeast Coast

Indira Zaldivar
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Tropical Storm Chantal Forms Off Southeast Coast

Tropical Storm Chantal formed earlier this morning off the southeastern U.S. coast and is forecasted to track northward toward the Carolinas in the coming days, according to the National Hurricane Center.

The Harris County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management (HCOHSEM) is actively monitoring the storm’s progress and will continue to provide updates throughout the 2025 hurricane season.

Preparedness Starts at Home

HCOHSEM reminds residents that the best way to build a resilient community is by preparing now and encouraging friends and neighbors to do the same.

Build an Emergency Kit

Emergency supply kits should contain enough non-perishable food and water for seven days. Other essential items include:

  • Medications and first aid supplies
  • Flashlights and batteries
  • Baby care items
  • Pet supplies, such as food, water, leashes, medications, and vaccination records

A full checklist is available on the ReadyHarris website under the “Get Prepared” tab.

Create an Evacuation Plan

Residents in evacuation zones should know their routes and follow local instructions. To check if your home is in an evacuation zone, visit the Zip Zone Evacuation Map.

Those who may need extra help during an evacuation — including medically fragile individuals and those needing transportation assistance — should register with the State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry (STEAR) online or by calling 2-1-1.

HCOHSEM also encourages homeowners, renters, and business owners to obtain flood insurance and review their existing policies to ensure they are up to date.

Stay Informed During Hurricane Season

Stay weather aware by signing up for emergency alerts at www.readyharris.org and texting GULF2025 to 888777 for hurricane updates.

Residents can also follow HCOHSEM on social media and subscribe to Ready Harris Alerts and Ready Harris Accessible Alerts for timely information before, during, and after a storm.

For more on hurricane safety, read our guide and stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Deadly Fireworks Blaze in Los Angeles Leaves 1 Dead, 5 Injured

Michael Esparza
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Deadly Fireworks Blaze in Los Angeles Leaves 1 Dead, 5 Injured

A fireworks-related residential fire in Los Angeles’ Pacoima neighborhood killed one man and injured five others Thursday night. The blaze quickly spread to four properties, triggering a massive response from over 130 firefighters, officials said.

Explosions Fueled the Fire’s Spread

The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) said the fire involved a large cache of fireworks stored in a detached garage. As the flames spread, fireworks continued detonating, threatening nearby brush and structures.

Witnesses Describe Explosion-Like Impact

“It felt like an explosion,” one resident told KABC. He described seeing fireworks go off as fires broke out across the street, causing chaos in the neighborhood.

Casualties and Animal Rescues

Firefighters found a man in his 30s dead after extinguishing the fire. A 33-year-old woman was hospitalized in critical but stable condition. Four others were treated at the scene for smoke inhalation. Several animals were injured; at least one dog was rushed to an emergency veterinary hospital.

Fire Contained in Under an Hour

The blaze, reported shortly after 9 p.m., engulfed three one-story homes, multiple accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and a parked vehicle. Firefighters contained the fire within 53 minutes.

Gas Leak and Electrical Hazards Managed

Responders also addressed a gas leak and downed live electrical wires behind the properties. The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power and the gas company were called to assist.

Officials Urge Safe Fireworks Practices

Firefighter David Ortiz warned against unlicensed fireworks use in Southern California’s dry conditions. “Leave the fireworks to the professionals,” he urged. “They are very powerful and can start fires.”

The cause of the blaze remains under investigation. For more details on this story, stay tuned with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Russia Launches Massive Drone Attack on Ukraine Leaving 11 Injured

Edward Saenz
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Russia Launches Massive Drone Attack on Ukraine Leaving 11 Injured

Russia unleashed a wave of 322 drones on Ukraine overnight, marking another major escalation in the conflict. According to the Ukrainian air force, 292 of the drones were either shot down or neutralized by other defensive measures.

Injuries Reported Near Kharkiv

In the Kharkiv region, 11 people, including two children, were injured when a drone strike hit overnight, local emergency services reported. Emergency crews worked to extinguish fires caused by the attack.

Khmelnytskyi Region Among Primary Targets

Many of the drones were aimed at Ukraine’s Khmelnytskyi region, particularly the city of Starokostiantyniv, which has been a frequent target in recent months.

Follows Largest Air Assault of the War

This latest attack came just one day after Russia launched its largest missile and drone assault of the war, targeting Kyiv with a record-breaking barrage.

Ukraine Strikes Back

In response, Ukraine’s military targeted a Russian airfield in Borisoglebsk early Saturday. Ukrainian officials said the strike hit an airbase housing Su-34, Su-35S, and Su-30SM fighter jets, along with a depot of glide bombs and other equipment.

Ongoing Escalation

The exchange marks another escalation in the ongoing war, as both sides continue to target key military infrastructure and civilian areas.

For the latest on the deadly Russia-Ukraine war, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Scattered showers possible over the holiday weekend

ABC13 Houston
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Scattered showers possible over the holiday weekend

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Our rain chances are dropping lower over the weekend, but we’ve still got enough moisture around to squeeze out a few showers Saturday and Sunday.

We should have more sun poking through the clouds Saturday than we saw on Friday, so it should get a little hotter with highs topping out in the mid 90s. There’s a 30% chance of showers in the morning with some isolated thunderstorms possible in the afternoon.

Major flooding is ongoing in the Hill Country west of I-35, and with more rain coming, please stay weather aware and use caution if your holiday weekend travel plans take you there.

What’s in store for the rest of the weekend and early next week?

Sunday’s rain chance drop down to 20% as moisture levels drop even more. Temperatures will climb into the mid 90s with a heat index above 100. Another batch of moisture rolls in here on Monday along with an upper air disturbance, pushing those rain odds up to 30% Monday and 40% Tuesday.

Is any triple digit heat in the forecast?

Not at this time. In fact, we still haven’t hit 100 so far this summer! It no longer looks like a heat ridge will park on us next week, so we’re predicting highs in the mid-to-upper 90s with a slim chance for an afternoon shower most days next week.

What’s happening in the tropics?

Tropical Storm Chantal has formed and will drench the Carolinas with heavy rain. 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.

Deadly Floods Sweep Through Texas Hill Country, leave at least 24 dead

Indira Zaldivar
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Deadly Floods Sweep Through Texas Hill Country, leave at least 24 dead

A devastating storm in south-central Texas unleashed nearly a foot of rain overnight, leaving at least 24 people dead and dozens missing.

Floodwaters surged through the Guadalupe River, submerging the Hill Country, an area known for its century-old summer camps.

Camp Mystic: Dozens of Girls Unaccounted For

State officials said 23 to 25 girls from Camp Mystic, a Christian summer camp in Hunt, were still missing as of Friday evening. Over 237 people have been rescued, but the search continues. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick urged Texans to pray, calling it an “on-your-knees kind of praying” moment.

Rescues by Helicopter Amid Rising Waters

Rescue crews reached Camp Mystic Friday afternoon, airlifting campers who had been stranded on higher ground. Elinor Lester, 13, described waking up to the storm and being evacuated by helicopter after walking through rushing waters tied to a rope for safety.

Younger Campers’ Cabins Quickly Flooded

According to Lester, younger campers—some as young as eight—were housed along the riverbanks, where the flooding first hit. With no food, power, or running water, campers waited for rescuers as floodwaters rose dangerously high.

Parents’ Relief and Ongoing Heartbreak

Elizabeth Lester tearfully reunited with her daughter, but noted others are still missing, including a friend’s daughter who was a counselor. Nearby camps La Junta and Waldemar reported all campers and staff safe.

Families Wait for News

At a reunification center in Ingram, anxious families gathered, hoping to see their children. Many shared heartbreaking updates in local Facebook groups after hearing their daughters had not yet been located.

Flash Flood Alley Strikes Again

Camp Mystic sits in “flash flood alley,” where rain rapidly runs downhill rather than soaking into the ground. Officials had warned of severe weather, predicting up to 6 inches of rain—nearly 10 inches fell. The Guadalupe River rose to 26 feet in just 45 minutes.

Echoes of Past Tragedies

The disaster recalls the 1987 tragedy when floodwaters claimed the lives of 10 campers from another Christian camp along the Guadalupe River.

Beloved Camp Now a Scene of Destruction

Former counselor Chloe Crane described Camp Mystic as a cherished place where girls gained confidence and independence. Now, many campers’ happy memories have been replaced by fear and uncertainty after cabins were washed away.

Recovery Efforts Continue

Rescue operations remain underway as families, first responders, and communities hold onto hope for those still missing. Charities like the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country are collecting donations to support relief efforts.

Follow every update on this story with us on Que Onda Magazine.

The History of the Fourth of July: America’s Independence Day

Edward Saenz
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The History of the Fourth of July: America’s Independence Day

The Fourth of July, also known as Independence Day, is one of the most celebrated holidays in the United States, marked by fireworks, parades, and patriotic gatherings. But beyond the festivities, this day holds deep historical significance as the birth of the American nation.

Breaking Away from British Rule

In the 18th century, the thirteen American colonies were under British rule. Tensions had been building for years due to taxation without representation, trade restrictions, and other disputes between the colonists and the British government. In response to these grievances, representatives from the colonies gathered in Philadelphia in the summer of 1776 to debate their future.

The Declaration of Independence

On July 2, 1776, the Continental Congress voted in favor of independence from Great Britain. Two days later, on July 4, the final wording of the Declaration of Independence was officially adopted. Drafted primarily by Thomas Jefferson, the document eloquently outlined the colonies’ reasons for seeking freedom and declared that “all men are created equal” with the right to “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”

Though the vote for independence occurred on July 2, the Fourth of July became the day Americans celebrated their new nation’s founding because that was the date printed on the Declaration of Independence.

Early Celebrations

The first celebrations of Independence Day began shortly after the document’s adoption. In 1777, Philadelphia marked the anniversary with fireworks, cannon salutes, and parades. Cities and towns across the new nation began holding their own celebrations, including readings of the Declaration, public speeches, and festive gatherings.

Becoming a National Holiday

Over time, July 4th celebrations grew in popularity. In 1870, nearly a century after the Declaration was signed, Congress made Independence Day an official federal holiday. In 1941, it became a paid holiday for federal employees.

Traditions and Modern Celebrations

Today, the Fourth of July is celebrated nationwide with barbecues, concerts, parades, and dazzling fireworks displays. Communities gather to honor American freedom and history, while families enjoy picnics, outdoor games, and patriotic music. Cities like Boston, New York, and Washington, D.C., host some of the nation’s largest festivities, drawing thousands of participants and spectators.

A Day of Reflection and Patriotism

While the Fourth of July is a day of joy and festivity, it also serves as a reminder of the struggles and sacrifices made to achieve American independence. It is a time for reflection on the values of freedom, equality, and democracy that continue to shape the United States today.

For more on t

Houston Launches Pilot Program to Speed Up Permitting Process

Indira Zaldivar
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Houston Launches Pilot Program to Speed Up Permitting Process

The City of Houston is taking major steps to modernize its permitting system and reduce long wait times for homeowners and builders.

New 30-Day Turnaround Goal for Home Permits

Starting Monday, July 7, the Houston Permitting Center will roll out a pilot program aiming to process permits for single-family residential homes within 30 days. The effort responds to years of complaints from residents and builders frustrated by delays that, in some cases, stretched up to a year.

A Promise Kept by Mayor John Whitmire

Mayor John Whitmire announced the new program as part of his commitment to reform city operations. “This certainly conforms to one of my campaign pledges to reform the permitting process in the City of Houston,” Whitmire said. “I’ve heard repeatedly that people would not do business with the City of Houston in the home building industry because it would take up to a year to get a permit.”

Program Aims to Modernize and Restore Trust

The pilot project includes several goals to improve the permitting process:

  • Streamline development
  • Eliminate costly delays
  • Modernize City operations
  • Restore confidence in local government

A Boost for Housing and Jobs

Mayor Whitmire expressed optimism about the program’s potential impact on Houston’s housing market. “It will improve affordability; it will create jobs, so I am really excited about it,” he said. “All I can say right now is: Let’s go to work.”

For more on Houston City Hall, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Another wave of thunderstorms expected on Independence Day

ABC13 Houston
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Another wave of thunderstorms expected on Independence Day

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Tropical moisture will remain with us on Independence Day, which will keep scattered showers and storms in the forecast Friday.

A few showers are possible throughout the morning before more scattered showers and storms develop around Noon Friday and could linger into the early evening hours. Remember, when thunder roars, go indoors! No severe weather is expected, but some of these storms could produce gusty winds over 40 mph and temporarily flood streets with a quick inch falling in as little as 15 minutes. With the extra rain clouds around, temperatures will only warm to around 90 with some folks staying in the 80s all day. Where it rains heavily, temperatures will fall into the 70s.

If your travel plans take you to other parts of the state, you will likely encounter scattered downpours on the way as the tropical moisture covers much of Texas.

Will there still be rain around during the Freedom Over Texas fireworks show?

It now looks like there could be some lingering showers left behind by the thunderstorms that pop up in the afternoon. We don’t expect any thunderstorms in the evening, but we have put in a 20% chance you’ll be under a shower. Most of the thunderstorms that form during the day should fizzle out quickly after sunset. Temperatures in the evening are expected to be in the mid 80s, but some rain-cooled neighborhoods could even be in the upper 70s by then. Of course the humidity will be high, so prepare for some muggy air.

Isn’t more Saharan dust on the way?

Yes! The second dust cloud of the week is moving in late on July 4th and the day after. This Saharan dust will lead to a hazy gray sky and a reduction in air quality. Those who are sensitive to this particulate matter may notice allergies and asthma flaring up. Despite the haze, there will still be enough moisture overhead to warrant a 30% chance of rain and a high of 94.

What’s in store for the rest of the weekend?

By Sunday the haze is moving out and more tropical moisture will start pushing in. Temperatures will climb into the upper 90s. The moisture moving in from the east is good enough for only a 20% chance of a shower initially, but those rain odds will increase in the 30-40% range for Monday and Tuesday.
What’s happening in the tropics?
We are watching a zone of potential development near Florida and the Carolinas as a weak front stalls out just offshore from the Gulf Coast and the East Coast. 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.

Russia Launches Largest Air Assault of the War on Kyiv

Michael Esparza
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Russia Launches Largest Air Assault of the War on Kyiv

Russia unleashed its most extensive missile and drone attack on Ukraine overnight, bombarding Kyiv with hundreds of drones in what officials describe as the biggest aerial assault since the start of the full-scale invasion.

Attack Follows Trump-Putin Phone Call

The massive airstrike began shortly after a high-profile phone conversation between former U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. The timing of the attack has raised alarm in Ukraine, where many view it as a message from Moscow.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted the connection in a statement Friday morning.

“Notably, the first air raid alerts in our cities and regions yesterday began to blare almost simultaneously with media reports discussing a phone call between President Trump and Putin,” Zelenskyy wrote. “Yet again, Russia is showing it has no intention of ending the war and terror. Only around 9 a.m. today did the air raid alert end in Kyiv. It was a brutal, sleepless night.”

Over 500 Drones Unleashed on Capital

Throughout the night, residents of Kyiv endured wave after wave of drone strikes, with videos showing large fires and smoke engulfing the city skyline. Ukraine reported that Russia launched more than 500 drones in this assault, the second time in a week that such an unprecedented barrage has occurred.

Dozens Injured, Residents Shelter Underground

At least 23 people were injured during the attacks, according to Kyiv’s mayor. Many spent the night in underground metro stations, seeking safety from the relentless air raids.

Kyiv Awakens to Smoke and Devastation

As Friday dawned, thick smoke from fires still burning blanketed the Ukrainian capital. For residents, it was one of the most harrowing nights since Russia’s invasion began in February 2022.

Attack Coincides With U.S. Weapons Freeze

The onslaught also came days after the Trump administration suspended shipments of key air defense weapons to Ukraine, a move that Ukrainian officials have criticized as leaving them more vulnerable to Russian attacks.

For the latest on the deadly Russia-Ukraine war, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Deadly Storm Strikes New Jersey, Forces Town to Cancel Fourth of July Festivities

Indira Zaldivar
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0
Deadly Storm Strikes New Jersey, Forces Town to Cancel Fourth of July Festivities

A powerful storm swept through central New Jersey on the eve of Independence Day, killing at least three people and leaving a trail of destruction that prompted local leaders to cancel holiday celebrations.

Winds Exceed 60 MPH, Causing Widespread Damage

On Thursday night, severe thunderstorms with wind gusts over 60 miles per hour battered parts of the Northeast. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy identified Plainfield and North Plainfield—towns located roughly 30 miles from New York City—as some of the most devastated areas.

While Governor Murphy confirmed fatalities occurred, he did not immediately provide an exact number. Local reports from ABC affiliate WABC stated that two people died in Plainfield and one in North Plainfield.

Plainfield Declares State of Emergency

Plainfield Mayor Adrian Mapp described the storm’s impact as leaving “deep scars” across the city. In response, he declared a state of emergency and announced the cancellation of the town’s Fourth of July parade, concert, and fireworks.

“In light of this tragedy, we cannot, in good conscience, proceed with our Fourth of July parade, concert, or fireworks,” Mapp said in a statement. “This is not a time for celebration. It is a time to regroup and focus all our energy on recovery.”

A Community Focused on Recovery

Mayor Mapp emphasized the importance of unity and healing in the aftermath of the disaster. “There will be a time to celebrate again, to raise our flags and enjoy the joys of community,” he said. “But right now, we must come together to clean up, to support one another, and to begin the work of rebuilding.”

Safety Concerns Prompt Warnings

In the hours following the storm, Governor Murphy urged residents to stay indoors due to the hazards of fallen trees, downed power lines, and burning transformers.

The deadly storm struck just as millions of Americans prepared to travel and celebrate the holiday weekend, further complicating travel plans across the region.

For more on the New Jersey storms, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

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