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ABC13 Weather Alert Days through Wednesday due to flooding downpours

ABC13 Houston
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ABC13 Weather Alert Days through Wednesday due to flooding downpours

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — At least two weather systems will bring torrential downpours that could lead to severe flooding in parts of Southeast Texas, prompting ABC13 Weather Alert Days through and Wednesday. Thursday has also been declared an ABC13 Weather Watch Day.

The ABC13 Weather Team said to expect an average of 3 to 6 inches of rain, leading to the potential for flash flooding in Houston through Thursday morning.

Drivers will need to exercise caution over the next few days and be aware of high-water spots.

Stay weather aware with ABC13 throughout the week for additional alerts and the latest on your forecast.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

El Paso City Council Keeps Meta Data Center Deal After Heated Debate

Indira Zaldivar
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El Paso City Council Keeps Meta Data Center Deal After Heated Debate

Council rejects effort to cancel $10 billion project agreement

The El Paso City Council voted 5-3 to keep its controversial incentive agreement with Meta Platforms Inc. for a new data center in Northeast El Paso.

The decision came after a seven-hour public meeting Tuesday, where many residents called on officials to end the agreement over concerns about water use, pollution, energy demands and the size of the tax incentives.

City Representatives Josh Acevedo, Chris Canales and Lily Limón voted to move forward with ending the agreement. Representatives Alejandra Chávez, Cynthia Boyar Trejo, Deanna Maldonado-Rocha, Art Fierro and Ivan Niño voted to keep the contract.

Meta receives 25-year tax incentive

The agreement, approved in 2023, provides Meta with an 80% reduction in city property taxes for 25 years through a Chapter 380 economic development agreement.

The incentive applies to Meta’s planned $10 billion investment, although the company’s initial commitment was $800 million. The city estimates the project could generate about $15 million annually in city taxes and become one of El Paso’s largest taxpayers.

Meta said the project will create thousands of construction jobs and support long-term technology infrastructure in the region. The company has said the data center will create at least 300 jobs, while the agreement requires 50 permanent positions.

Residents raise water and environmental concerns

Opponents argued the data center could place additional strain on El Paso’s limited water and energy resources. Some residents cited estimates that the facility could use up to 1.5 million gallons of water daily.

Critics also questioned whether the economic benefits justify the tax break, while supporters said canceling the agreement could hurt future development and expose the city to legal risks.

Officials debate risks of ending contract

Supporters of terminating the deal argued the city should reconsider an agreement made before several current council members took office. Opponents warned that ending the contract could lead to lawsuits and financial penalties.

City officials have estimated the project could generate hundreds of millions of dollars in tax revenue over 25 years, while legal experts have warned the city could face significant damages if the agreement is broken.

After the vote, protesters called on residents to hold elected officials accountable during the November elections, when several council seats will be on the ballot.

For more on the data centers and AI controversy, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Midland Aims to Expand Texas’ Growing Space Economy Through New Launch Site, Aerospace Investments

Edward Saenz
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Midland Aims to Expand Texas’ Growing Space Economy Through New Launch Site, Aerospace Investments

Long known as the heart of the Permian Basin oil industry, Midland is positioning itself as a future hub for the commercial space sector as local leaders pursue new aerospace investments, manufacturing projects and rocket launch capabilities.

City officials, economic development leaders and aerospace industry representatives gathered this week to discuss Midland’s role in Texas’ rapidly expanding space economy, highlighting efforts to diversify the region’s economy beyond oil and gas.

At the center of those efforts is the Midland International Air & Space Port, one of the few FAA-approved commercial spaceports in the United States. Local officials say the facility’s expansive airspace, existing infrastructure and engineering workforce make it an attractive location for aerospace companies seeking manufacturing, testing and launch operations.

The city recently received a $5 million grant from the Texas Space Commission to support development of a planned vertical rocket launch site. Officials say the project could become one of the first commercially accessible vertical launch facilities in the country outside of government-operated launch centers.

Supporters argue the project would allow Midland to attract rocket companies, satellite manufacturers and aerospace contractors looking for additional launch capacity as demand across the industry grows.

“The goal is to create an ecosystem that supports the full aerospace supply chain,” local economic development officials said during discussions about the project.

Several aerospace companies have already established operations in Midland. AST SpaceMobile, a satellite communications company, has expanded its manufacturing presence in the city and plans to continue producing satellites in West Texas. Aerospace company Starfighters Space has also established facilities at the spaceport, supporting research and testing operations.

The initiative comes as Texas continues to strengthen its position as a national leader in the commercial space industry. The state is already home to major aerospace facilities, including SpaceX’s launch operations in South Texas, Blue Origin’s testing facilities in West Texas and NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston.

Rather than competing directly with those operations, Midland leaders envision the city serving as a complementary center for aerospace manufacturing, testing and commercial launch activities.

Economic development officials say the strategy is designed to reduce the region’s dependence on fluctuations in the oil market while creating new opportunities in a high-growth industry. Industry forecasts estimate the global space economy could reach $1.8 trillion by 2035, driven by satellite communications, commercial launch services, defense contracts and emerging space technologies.

Local leaders believe Midland’s existing workforce, developed through decades of energy production and industrial operations, could provide a strong foundation for aerospace growth.

If development plans move forward as expected, officials estimate the region’s space sector could create hundreds of additional jobs over the coming years while attracting new private investment to West Texas.

For Midland, the effort represents one of the most ambitious economic diversification projects in the city’s history — a bid to leverage its industrial expertise and infrastructure to secure a place in the next generation of Texas economic growth.

Texas Expands Response to New World Screwworm After First U.S. Case Confirmed

Edward Saenz
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Texas Expands Response to New World Screwworm After First U.S. Case Confirmed

Texas and federal officials are intensifying efforts to contain the spread of the New World screwworm after the first U.S. case of the parasite in decades was confirmed in South Texas, raising concerns about potential impacts on the state’s livestock industry.

The discovery has prompted a coordinated response involving the Texas Animal Health Commission, the Texas Department of Agriculture, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and other agencies tasked with preventing the pest from establishing a foothold in the United States.

State officials have expanded surveillance efforts, increased livestock inspections and implemented movement controls in affected areas as they work to contain the outbreak. Veterinary teams have also been deployed to monitor livestock and investigate potential additional cases.

Gov. Greg Abbott issued a disaster proclamation related to the outbreak, allowing state agencies to mobilize resources and coordinate response efforts more quickly.

The New World screwworm is a parasitic fly whose larvae feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals. Unlike common maggots that consume dead tissue, screwworm larvae burrow into healthy flesh, creating wounds that can become severe and potentially fatal if left untreated.

The parasite can infect cattle, horses, wildlife, pets and, in rare cases, humans.

The United States eradicated the New World screwworm in the 1960s through a large-scale sterile insect release program that is widely considered one of the most successful pest eradication efforts in U.S. history. The recent detection has alarmed agricultural officials because of the economic damage the parasite can cause if allowed to spread.

Texas is home to one of the nation’s largest cattle industries, and agricultural leaders warn that a widespread infestation could result in significant economic losses for ranchers and livestock producers. The outbreak could also affect interstate and international livestock movement if additional cases are detected.

Officials are increasing trapping and monitoring efforts in South Texas while coordinating with federal authorities and counterparts in Mexico to track the parasite’s movement and prevent further spread. Authorities are also preparing contingency plans that could include the use of sterile-fly release programs if necessary.

Agriculture experts say rapid detection and containment are critical because screwworm populations can spread quickly among livestock and wildlife if left unchecked.

While only a limited number of cases have been confirmed, officials say they are treating the situation aggressively to prevent a larger outbreak.

The coming weeks are expected to be critical as state and federal agencies continue testing, surveillance and containment operations across South Texas. The outcome could determine whether the outbreak remains isolated or develops into a broader threat to Texas agriculture and wildlife.

Texas Regulators Consider New Rules for Reuse of Treated Oilfield Wastewater

Que Onda Editorial
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Texas Regulators Consider New Rules for Reuse of Treated Oilfield Wastewater

Texas environmental regulators are considering new rules that could allow treated wastewater from oil and gas drilling operations to be used for agricultural purposes, a proposal that has sparked debate among industry leaders, scientists and environmental advocates.

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality is developing regulations governing the reuse of treated “produced water,” the wastewater generated during oil and gas extraction and hydraulic fracturing. Supporters say the effort could help address growing water shortages across Texas, while critics warn more research is needed to ensure public health and environmental safety.

Produced water contains a mixture of salts, heavy metals, naturally occurring radioactive materials and chemicals used in drilling operations. Texas oilfields generate billions of barrels of the wastewater annually, with most currently disposed of through underground injection wells.

Under draft regulations being considered by state regulators, treated produced water could be used under specific conditions and setbacks designed to protect water supplies and nearby communities. Proposed rules would restrict use near streams, lakes and water wells and require applicants to demonstrate that groundwater resources would not be harmed.

The proposal comes as Texas faces increasing pressure on its water resources due to population growth, prolonged drought conditions and rising agricultural and industrial demand.

Supporters of the initiative, including some energy industry groups, argue that advances in water treatment technology could transform a major waste product into a valuable resource. They say expanding water recycling efforts could reduce strain on traditional water supplies while providing additional resources for agriculture and other sectors.

Environmental organizations and some researchers, however, have expressed concerns about the long-term impacts of releasing treated produced water into the environment. Critics argue that current regulations may not require sufficient testing for contaminants such as heavy metals, radioactive materials and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly known as PFAS or “forever chemicals.”

They contend that wastewater generated by oil and gas production presents unique challenges that differ from municipal wastewater and should be subject to stricter oversight before widespread reuse is authorized.

The debate comes as Texas lawmakers and regulators continue exploring ways to expand water supplies amid recurring drought conditions and concerns about the state’s long-term water future.

If adopted, the rules could significantly alter how Texas manages one of its largest industrial waste streams and potentially create a new source of water for agricultural and other non-potable uses. The proposal is expected to face continued scrutiny as regulators move through the rulemaking process.

The outcome could have far-reaching implications for Texas’ energy industry, agricultural sector and environmental policy as state leaders seek to balance economic growth with increasing demands on the state’s water resources.

Houston’s World Cup Debut Draws Massive Crowd, Exposes Transit Challenges

Edward Saenz
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Houston’s World Cup Debut Draws Massive Crowd, Exposes Transit Challenges

Houston’s first match as a host city for the 2026 FIFA World Cup drew more than 68,000 fans Sunday and marked a major milestone for the city, but transportation issues following the game highlighted one of the biggest logistical challenges officials face as the tournament continues.

Germany defeated Curaçao 7-1 before a crowd of 68,021 at Houston Stadium, officially launching Houston’s role in the largest World Cup in history. The match was the first of seven World Cup games scheduled to be played in the city over the coming weeks.

The event represented years of planning by local leaders, transportation agencies and public safety officials, who have spent the past four years preparing for an influx of international visitors. Houston is expected to welcome hundreds of thousands of fans throughout the tournament, generating significant economic activity for hotels, restaurants and local businesses.

Despite concerns about heavy rain earlier in the day, fans arrived in large numbers and filled the stadium. Organizers reported only minor weather-related issues, while security operations and stadium procedures were largely successful during the city’s opening match.

The biggest challenge emerged after the final whistle.

Thousands of fans attempting to leave the stadium overwhelmed nearby public transit stations, creating long lines and extended wait times for riders seeking transportation back to downtown and other parts of the city.

METRO had increased service along its Red Line and encouraged fans to use public transportation rather than drive to the stadium. Before kickoff, trains operated frequently and helped move large crowds to the venue. However, the departure of tens of thousands of spectators at the same time created bottlenecks at stations near the stadium.

Many fans reported waiting well over an hour to board trains, while others described crowded platforms and confusion regarding boarding procedures. Some spectators opted to leave the transit lines altogether and seek rideshare services or alternative transportation.

The delays occurred amid high temperatures and humid conditions, leading emergency personnel to respond to several minor heat-related incidents among fans waiting in line.

Transportation experts have long identified mobility as one of Houston’s most significant challenges during the World Cup. Unlike some international host cities with extensive rail networks, Houston relies heavily on a combination of light rail, buses, rideshare services and private vehicles to move large crowds.

The city’s transportation system is expected to face additional tests this week as Houston prepares to host several more World Cup matches, including a highly anticipated matchup featuring Portugal.

METRO officials said they are reviewing operations from Sunday’s match and working with FIFA and local partners to improve crowd management and transit flow before the next game.

Houston leaders have repeatedly emphasized that the World Cup serves as an opportunity to showcase the city on a global stage. While the opening match was widely viewed as a success inside the stadium, officials now face pressure to address transportation concerns before larger crowds arrive for future matches.

The city’s next World Cup fixture is scheduled for Wednesday, when another large international audience is expected to descend on Houston Stadium and surrounding venues.

Texas GOP Chair Ousted in Surprise Convention Vote

Que Onda Editorial
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Texas GOP Chair Ousted in Surprise Convention Vote

Texas Republicans elected new leadership over the weekend after party delegates voted to replace state GOP Chair Abraham George with Vice Chair D’rinda Randall during the party’s biennial convention in Houston.

Randall’s victory marked one of the most significant developments of the convention, signaling potential shifts in party strategy and organization as Republicans prepare for the 2026 midterm elections.

George, who was elected chair in 2024 and had ties to some of the party’s most conservative factions, was defeated following growing concerns among some delegates about communication, fundraising and the party’s overall direction. The race highlighted divisions within the Texas Republican Party despite repeated calls for unity from state leaders throughout the convention.

Randall, a longtime Republican activist from Waxahachie who previously served as the party’s vice chair, campaigned on improving communication with grassroots activists, strengthening relationships with county parties and expanding organizational efforts ahead of November’s elections.

The leadership change comes at a pivotal time for Texas Republicans, who continue to hold every statewide elected office and maintain control of both chambers of the Texas Legislature. As state party chair, Randall will oversee fundraising, voter outreach and campaign operations for the party during the upcoming election cycle.

The election took place during the Texas Republican Convention at Houston’s George R. Brown Convention Center, where delegates gathered to debate party priorities and adopt a platform outlining the party’s positions on issues ranging from immigration and education to taxes and public safety.

Political observers say the leadership contest reflected broader debates within the Republican Party over how best to maintain its dominance in Texas while addressing concerns from grassroots activists and local party organizations.

Randall is expected to begin transitioning into her new role immediately as the party prepares for a series of statewide and federal races in 2026, including a closely watched U.S. Senate contest that is expected to draw national attention.

While Republican leaders emphasized unity throughout the convention, the chairmanship race underscored ongoing tensions between different factions within the party and highlighted the challenges facing Texas Republicans as they look toward the next election cycle.

Fox Roku Deal Marks Major $22 Billion Push Into Streaming

Michael Esparza
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Fox Roku Deal Marks Major $22 Billion Push Into Streaming

Fox Corporation has agreed to acquire Roku in a cash-and-stock deal valued at about $22 billion. The Fox Roku deal would combine Fox’s sports, news, and entertainment programming with one of the largest connected TV platforms in the market.

The companies announced the agreement on Monday, June 15. The transaction values Roku at $160 per share and is expected to close in the first half of 2027, pending shareholder and regulatory approvals.

Fox Roku Deal Expands Streaming Reach

The agreement would give Fox a larger role in the fast-changing streaming market. Roku operates a major connected TV platform, sells streaming devices, and runs The Roku Channel.

Roku reaches more than 100 million streaming households globally, according to the companies. That reach gives Fox a direct path into homes where viewers are moving away from traditional cable.

Fox already owns Tubi, a free ad-supported streaming service. By adding Roku, Fox would gain another major advertising platform and a stronger position in connected television.

The companies said Roku would continue operating as an open platform. That means other streaming services would still be available through Roku devices and software.

What Roku Shareholders Would Receive

Under the deal, Roku shareholders would receive $96 in cash and 0.9693 shares of Fox Class A common stock for each Roku share. The total value equals $160 per share.

After the transaction closes, Fox shareholders are expected to own about 73% of the combined company. Roku shareholders are expected to own about 27%.

Fox said its shareholder capital return program would continue. The company also said it expects to maintain its investment grade rating.

The agreement still needs approval before it becomes final. Until then, Fox and Roku will continue operating as separate companies.

Why Fox Wants Roku

Fox has focused heavily on live sports, news, broadcast television, and free streaming. Roku gives the company a larger technology and distribution platform.

The deal could help Fox sell more targeted advertising across streaming services. It may also strengthen Fox’s ability to promote live programming, including sports and news, to streaming audiences.

Media companies have been searching for better ways to reach viewers as cable subscriptions decline. Connected TV platforms have become more important because they control how many viewers find streaming apps and channels.

The Fox Roku deal also reflects a larger trend in media consolidation. Traditional television companies are looking for scale as streaming competition grows.

What It Means for Viewers

For viewers, the deal may lead to more Fox programming across Roku’s platform. It could also bring closer connections between Tubi, The Roku Channel, and Fox’s live content.

However, the companies have said Roku will remain open to outside partners. That point will likely matter to other streaming companies that depend on Roku for distribution.

Regulators may review whether the deal affects competition in streaming, advertising, or connected TV access. The companies expect the transaction to close in the first half of 2027.

If completed, the acquisition would make Fox a much larger player in streaming technology. It would also place Roku’s platform, ad business, and audience reach inside one of the country’s best-known media companies.

For consumers, advertisers, and media competitors, the Fox Roku deal signals another major shift in how television is distributed, watched, and paid for.

HCC and Space Center Houston Partnership Expands STEM Education and Workforce Pathways

Michael Esparza
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HCC and Space Center Houston Partnership Expands STEM Education and Workforce Pathways

Houston City College and Space Center Houston have launched a new partnership to expand STEM education and strengthen workforce pathways for students across the region. The HCC Space Center Houston partnership will connect classroom learning with real-world aerospace experience.

Leaders from both organizations signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Tuesday, June 9, at the HCC West Houston Institute. The agreement focuses on student access, educator development, and career preparation in aerospace and related industries.

HCC Space Center Houston Partnership Builds Career Pathways

The partnership is designed to help students explore emerging careers in science, technology, engineering, and math. It will also support training connected to the growing space economy.

Key parts of the agreement include workforce and credential pathways. These may include elements from Space Center University and Accelerate Space to help prepare learners for aerospace careers.

The partnership will also support experiential learning and educator development. Planned efforts include space-focused summer camps and AI-driven STEM training programs.

HCC and Space Center Houston also plan to work together on research, grants, and alignment with the Texas Space Commission. The shared goal is to connect education, workforce development, and industry needs.

Students Gain Access to NASA-Level Learning

HCC Chancellor Margaret Ford Fisher, Ed.D., said the collaboration brings high-level science and exploration into the classroom.

“This partnership brings NASA-level science and exploration into our curriculum, providing students with hands-on workshops, astronaut presentations and aerospace projects that inspire future careers in science and technology,” Fisher said.

She said the partnership combines HCC’s education resources with Space Center Houston’s industry expertise.

“By combining HCC’s educational resources with Space Center Houston’s industry expertise, we are creating new pathways for students to reach new heights,” Fisher said.

The agreement gives students access to learning experiences tied to real-world exploration. It also gives educators new tools to prepare students for fast-changing fields.

Space Center Houston Emphasizes Workforce Collaboration

William Harris, president and CEO of Space Center Houston, said education remains central to the organization’s mission.

“Education is at the heart of our world,” Harris said. “Houston has long been a city built by innovators, problem solvers and people who want to take on big challenges.”

Harris said the region’s future depends on developing talent and creating clear pathways for success. He also noted HCC’s role in preparing students for the broader workforce.

Space Center Houston is the Official Visitor Center of NASA Johnson Space Center. It welcomes more than 1.3 million visitors and more than 250,000 students and educators each year.

The center is also a Smithsonian Affiliate and a Certified Autism Center. It is owned by the Manned Space Flight Education nonprofit organization.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Innovators

Daniel Newmyer, chief learning officer at Space Center Houston, said the partnership will help students imagine new possibilities.

“This partnership allows us to create experiences that inspire curiosity, encourage discovery and help people imagine what comes next,” Newmyer said.

He said students who gain access to meaningful learning experiences can better see their own potential.

“When people are given the opportunity to learn, they see what’s possible and realize there is no limit to their journey,” Newmyer said.

HCC is one of the nation’s largest singly accredited, open-admission community colleges. It offers bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, certificates, workforce training, and lifelong learning opportunities.

As Houston continues to lead in aerospace and technology, this partnership aims to build a stronger workforce pipeline. It also gives students more ways to connect education with future careers in science, exploration, and innovation.

For more information on HCC degree programs and certifications, visit hccs.edu.

Judge Lina Hidalgo Welcomes World Cup Fans in New Welcome to Houston Video

Que Onda Editorial
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Judge Lina Hidalgo Welcomes World Cup Fans in New Welcome to Houston Video

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo is welcoming international visitors in a newly released Welcome to Houston video as World Cup activity gets underway. The video highlights Harris County’s role as a global gateway and a major destination for culture, business, and sports.

The message comes as more than 500,000 out-of-town visitors are expected in Harris County during the World Cup. According to the FIFA Houston Host Committee, about 75% of those visitors are expected to come from other countries.

Welcome to Houston Video Highlights Harris County

The new video features Judge Hidalgo welcoming fans from around the world. It also points to Harris County’s growing reputation as an international destination.

Harris County is home to major cultural institutions, business centers, restaurants, neighborhoods, and public spaces. The region also reflects one of the most diverse communities in the United States.

The World Cup gives local leaders a chance to introduce that identity to a global audience. For many visitors, the tournament may be their first experience in Harris County and the greater Houston area.

Judge Hidalgo’s message focuses on hospitality and connection. It presents the region as a place where international fans can feel welcome while enjoying the tournament.

Harris County Prepares for Global Visitors

Local officials expect the World Cup to bring major attention to Harris County. The large number of visitors could also create a major boost for hotels, restaurants, transportation, small businesses, and entertainment venues.

The FIFA Houston Host Committee expects international travelers to make up most of the visitor total. That makes the county’s role especially important as fans arrive from different countries, languages, and cultures.

Harris County has long served as an international hub through business, medicine, energy, education, and travel. The World Cup adds another major moment to that global profile.

The tournament also offers a chance for local communities to showcase their food, music, art, and traditions. Houston’s cultural diversity remains one of the region’s strongest attractions.

Hidalgo Calls Harris County a World Cup City

In the video, Judge Hidalgo connects Houston’s familiar identity with its new role during the tournament.

“We’re known as the Space City, but this summer we’re a World Cup city,” Hidalgo says in the video. “Every fan will feel at home here. Harris County is ready to welcome you – see you soon!”

The message is aimed at fans already arriving and those planning trips during the tournament. It also reflects the county’s effort to present a welcoming image to the world.

The World Cup is one of the most watched sporting events globally. Hosting fans during the tournament places Harris County in front of a large international audience.

A Major Moment for Local Hospitality

The expected visitor numbers point to a busy summer for the region. Businesses and public agencies may see increased demand as fans travel to matches, events, restaurants, and entertainment districts.

For local residents, the World Cup also brings a chance to take part in a global celebration close to home. Watch parties, community events, and cultural gatherings may help connect neighborhoods with the international excitement.

Harris County’s welcome message centers on that shared experience. It encourages visitors to see the region as more than a tournament stop.

As World Cup fans arrive, Judge Hidalgo’s Welcome to Houston video presents Harris County as ready, diverse, and open to the world.

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