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ABC13 Weather Alert Day: Tornado Watch in effect for southeast Texas counties

ABC13 Houston
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ABC13 Weather Alert Day: Tornado Watch in effect for southeast Texas counties

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Tuesday is an ABC13 Weather Alert Day. All severe hazards will be possible as we head through the afternoon hours.

The National Weather Service issued a Tornado Watch until 4 p.m. for parts of southeast Texas, including the following counties: Austin, Brazos, Burleson, Colorado, Fort Bend, Grimes, Harris, Houston, Madison, Montgomery, San Jacinto, Trinity, Walker, Waller, Washington, and Wharton. Isolated tornadoes, hail up to 3″ in diameter, and winds up to 70 mph will be the main risks.

There’s also a Flood Watch in effect for Tuesday for our northern counties.

We are starting off this morning with scattered showers which should blossom into storms by the mid to late morning hours. Storms should become more numerous into the afternoon and it’s possible we also could see a broken line of storms try to move in during the evening hours. The greatest risk of severe weather will be in the mid morning through the afternoon hours.What else should we know about the ABC13 Weather Alert Day for Tuesday?

Tuesday is an ABC13 Weather Alert Day because of the potential for severe storms and flash flooding. These storms could produce hail, damaging winds, and a few tornadoes. Street flooding is likely where a quick 1 to 3 inches falls in the heavier storms. Our coastal counties are least likely to get these storms, so the risk for bad weather will increase the farther north you go from the coast.

What’s on tap for the rest of the work week?

An upper-level low centered west of Texas will continue to spin up showers and thunderstorms over Southeast Texas for Wednesday through Thursday, some of which could be severe. Rain chances gradually decrease from 60% Wednesday to 30% Friday. Then a lovely “cool” front will blow in just in time for the weekend.

How much rain are we expecting this week?

Depends on the intensity of the showers and storms and how many roll through your neighborhood. But on average most of Southeast Texas will pick up around 1 to 3 inches of rain this week. Some areas could see more though, which is why there’s a localized flood concern. Flash flooding could be a localized threat when the heavy rain falls Tuesday and Wednesday.

So things are still looking good for Mother’s Day weekend?

Thankfully it looks like that upper-level low will finally pull away from the region just in time for Mom, leaving behind a calmer weekend of weather similar to last weekend. Both days look dry with low humidity, abundant sunshine, and pleasant temperatures warming from around 60 in the morning to around 80 in the afternoon.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Keep up with all things Houston with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Houston storm prep threatened as Trump pulls resources from major climate report

Edward Saenz
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Houston storm prep threatened as Trump pulls resources from major climate report

The Trump administration’s decision to disband hundreds of scientists and experts working on the National Climate Assessment has immediate implications for Texas. This report is crucial for Houston’s planning against extreme weather events like hurricanes. Over 400 volunteer scientists nationwide, including at least four in Texas, were dismissed from their roles via email. Texas researchers from institutions like the University of Texas system and Texas Tech University were looking forward to contributing to this assessment, which is used by various entities, from local governments to agricultural businesses.

Katharine Hayhoe, a Texas-based author of a previous assessment, emphasized its importance as a peer-reviewed study quantifying climate change impacts. This action followed NASA’s cancellation of its support contract and the dismissal of staff from the U.S. Global Change Research Program.

The National Climate Assessment, updated periodically by 15 government agencies and external researchers as mandated by a 1990 law, informs Houston’s hazard assessments and preparedness plans, as stated by Mel Bartis of the city’s Office of Emergency Management. The 2023 Hazard Mitigation Plan referenced this assessment.

Sascha Petersen, a Texas-based expert released from his role, expressed disappointment but hopes the federal government will continue the assessment. He noted the significant effort required for such a comprehensive report and the necessity of federal support. Petersen, a contributor to previous assessments, would have led the Southern Great Plains region’s section. Groups and agencies rely on these assessments for planning against climate impacts.

Jen Duggan of the Environmental Integrity Project stated that dismissing scientists does not negate the reality of climate change. The next report, initially expected between late 2027 and early 2028, now faces uncertainty. Luke Metzger of Environment Texas warned of the dangers of abandoning the report amid increasingly severe weather.

U.S. declares military zone in El Paso, allowing soldiers to arrest migrants

Edward Saenz
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U.S. declares military zone in El Paso, allowing soldiers to arrest migrants

The Pentagon has established a second military zone in the El Paso area, enabling U.S. soldiers to patrol as part of the Trump administration’s efforts to curb illegal southern border crossings, despite these crossings being at a historic low.

U.S. Northern Command announced Thursday that this new military zone will be within the Fort Bliss Army base and will extend approximately 53 miles east to Fort Hancock, according to Maj. Geoffrey Carmichael of the Joint Task Force – Southern Border, as reported by Stars and Stripes.

Gen. Gregory Guillot, commander of U.S. Northern Command, stated that this second National Defense Area will enhance their operational reach and effectiveness in preventing illegal activity along the southern border.

This development follows the Pentagon’s designation last month of a 60-foot-wide strip along the New Mexico-Mexico border as a military zone. On Monday, federal prosecutors charged over two dozen migrants with violating security regulations after the U.S. Army spotted them and alerted Border Patrol agents. These charges are in addition to the misdemeanor charge of illegal entry.

Geoffrey S. Corn, director of the Center for Military Law and Policy at Texas Tech University School of Law and retired U.S. Army lieutenant colonel, noted the long-standing federal prohibition on using the military for civilian law enforcement, as their primary mission is not law enforcement.

Corn stated that soldiers are “trained as warriors.”

Nevertheless, he believes the Trump administration has found a creative way to involve the military in immigration enforcement without congressional approval.

While the Posse Comitatus Act generally prohibits the U.S. military from civilian law enforcement, the military purpose doctrine provides exceptions.

Corn argued that “using the military as part of border security reinforces the perception and the narrative that the nation is under some type of invasion,” despite the fact that “the number of border crossings has been steadily dropping for some time now.”

In March, the Department of Homeland Security reported 1,627 migrant encounters in the El Paso sector (including all of New Mexico’s border and parts of West Texas), an 87% decrease since August 2024.

Aimée Santillán, a policy analyst at the Hope Border Institute, an El Paso immigrant rights group, expressed concern over the “militarization of our border,” stating that this escalation is “deeply concerning” as it further criminalizes asylum seekers and could negatively impact humanitarian aid at a time when migrant deaths in the El Paso Border Patrol Sector are increasing.

Federal data compiled by No More Deaths, a migrant aid group, indicates that at least 176 migrants died in the El Paso sector in 2024, continuing a decade-long upward trend, compared to only one documented death in 2014.

Cinco de Mayo: How Houstonians celebrate Mexican heritage

Indira Zaldivar
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Cinco de Mayo: How Houstonians celebrate Mexican heritage

Cinco de Mayo, a holiday rooted in Mexico’s historic victory against France in 1862, has evolved to a celebration of Mexican heritage in the U.S.

Houston is not an exception.

With more than 70% of the Hispanic population in Houston originating from Mexico, the Space City prides itself in honoring Mexican roots in several citywide public events. Accordingly, Que Onda Magazine proudly sponsored LULAC District 8′s 28th annual Cinco de Mayo Parade and the East End Street Fest at The Esplanade in Houston’s east end on Saturday, May 3.

LULAC District 8′s 28th annual Cinco de Mayo Parade

Houston family enjoys the Cinco de Mayo parade in downtown Houston on May 3, 2024. Credit Indira Zaldivar

The parade boasted several Hispanic public figures including. U.S. Rep. Sylvia Garcia, State Senator Carol Alvarado, Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez, Harris County Precint 6 Constable Silvia Trevino, and the parade’s Grand Marshal: Dr. Laura Murillo, President of the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (just to name a few).

U.S. Rep. Sylvia Garcia participates in the 2025 Cinco de Mayo Parde in downtown Houston on May 3, 2025: Credit: Indira Zaldivar.

With Mexican folklórico dancers, mariachi, and low-riders colorfully displaying cultural ties to Mexico. The crowd of spectators proudly waving Mexican flags while enjoying the parade.

Of course, as a magazine founded by two Mexican immigrants, Que Onda Magazine proudly participated and sponsored the parade for the third time.

East End Street Fest

Hundreds flocked to the Houston East End Esplanade on Navigation Boulevard to celebrate Cinco de Mayo.

Vendors showcased Mexican cuisine, art, and clothing, while performers drew the crowd in with lively cumbia music and traditional Mexican dances, including Aztec and folklórico performances.

Cinco de Mayo History and Beyond

While Cinco de Mayo may have started with the Mexican army’s unlikely victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862, the holiday surpasses the historic day. Though a relatively minor holiday in Mexico, it has evolved in the United States into a broader celebration of Mexican heritage and culture.

Today, Cinco de Mayo is marked with festivals, music, traditional food, and dance—highlighting the rich contributions of Mexican Americans to U.S. society.

Keep up with more cultural events with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Jury Selection Begins in Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Sex Trafficking Trial

Edward Saenz
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Jury Selection Begins in Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Sex Trafficking Trial

Jury selection has begun in the federal trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs, marking the start of a high-profile legal battle that could lead to a life sentence for one of hip-hop’s most influential moguls.

Combs Faces Serious Federal Charges

Federal prosecutors accuse Combs of using his power and wealth to sexually exploit and coerce women over decades. The five-count indictment includes racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and transporting individuals for prostitution. If convicted, Combs could spend the rest of his life in prison.

According to the indictment, Combs orchestrated drug-fueled group sex events—referred to as “freak offs”—and used threats and intimidation to keep victims silent. Prosecutors allege participants were so physically depleted afterward that IV fluids were administered for recovery.

Defense: “He Thought It Was Appropriate”

Combs has pleaded not guilty. His lawyers describe him as a consensual participant in a “swinger lifestyle,” and argue that all encounters were voluntary.

“There’s a lifestyle, call it swingers, that he was in that he thought was appropriate… because it’s so common,” said defense attorney Marc Agnifilo.

Cassie Ventura Case Sparked Federal Probe

The case gained momentum after CNN aired surveillance footage from 2016 showing Combs physically assaulting then-girlfriend Cassie Ventura in a Los Angeles hotel. Ventura’s 2023 civil lawsuit—settled the next day without admission of guilt—prompted federal investigators to dig deeper, eventually leading to Combs’ arrest in September 2024.

Combs later issued a video apology, saying:

“My behavior on that video is inexcusable. I take full responsibility.”

Trial Expected to Be Explicit and Lengthy

Jurors will be vetted for their ability to endure a two-month trial featuring graphic evidence, including testimony from Cassie Ventura and three other alleged victims, two of whom will testify anonymously. Prosecutors will also present items seized during federal raids on Combs’ homes—among them AR-15-style rifles with defaced serial numbers and dozens of electronic devices.

Combs Rejected Plea Deal

Just days before trial, prosecutors offered a plea deal. Combs declined, replying in court:

“Yes I do, Your Honor,” when asked if he rejected the offer.

In court, Combs has appeared in jail-issued clothing, though he will wear regular attire in front of the jury. Family members, including his mother, are expected to attend.

Legal Heavyweights on Both Sides

Combs’ defense team includes:

  • Marc Agnifilo and Teny Geragos, who defended NXIVM cult leader Keith Raniere
  • Brian Steel, who represented rapper Young Thug
  • Alexandra Shapiro, appellate attorney for Sam Bankman-Fried

The all-female prosecution team features:

  • Maureen Comey, who secured Ghislaine Maxwell’s conviction
  • Emily Johnson, Mitzi Steiner, Madison Smyser, and Christy Slavik, all experienced in prosecuting violent crime and organized rings

A Trial Coinciding With a Cultural Icon’s Fall

Coincidentally, jury selection began the same day as the Met Gala, where Combs was once a red-carpet mainstay. Now, he faces the ultimate test—not in music or fashion—but in a federal courtroom.

Keep up with Combs’ trial with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Student Loan Collections Restart: What Borrowers in Default Need to Know

Indira Zaldivar
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Student Loan Collections Restart: What Borrowers in Default Need to Know

The Department of Education has resumed collecting on defaulted student loans, putting millions at risk of wage and benefit garnishment. This policy shift comes as the Trump administration rolls back Biden-era reforms aimed at student debt relief.

Who’s Affected?

Over 5 million borrowers are currently in default, and another 4 million are in late-stage delinquency. Those not in default yet are not affected by this change, but experts urge all borrowers to check their loan status to stay informed.

What Is Default?

Federal student loans enter default after 270 days of missed payments. If you’re unsure about your status:

  • Check your credit report
  • Contact your loan servicer
  • Visit studentaid.gov for up-to-date information

How Will Collections Work?

The government has reactivated the Treasury Offset Program, allowing it to collect from:

  • Federal and state tax refunds
  • Social Security benefits

This summer, the Education Department will also restart administrative wage garnishment, where employers may be ordered to withhold part of a borrower’s paycheck.

How to Get Out of Default

1. Loan Rehabilitation

Make nine consecutive, voluntary payments over 10 months. Payments are based on your income, generally 10–15% of discretionary income. Rehabilitation removes the default from your credit report, though previous delinquency will still appear.

2. Loan Consolidation

Combine multiple federal loans into one. This resets eligibility for income-driven repayment plans but restarts the forgiveness timeline.

Are Deferment or Forbearance Options?

Not while in default. Borrowers lose access to deferment, forbearance, and repayment plan choices until they either rehabilitate or consolidate their loans.

Can Bankruptcy Discharge Student Loans?

Discharging student debt in bankruptcy is rare, but possible under the Brunner Test, which requires showing:

  • An inability to maintain a basic standard of living
  • That hardship will continue long-term
  • A good faith effort to repay

Thanks to Biden-era reforms, more borrowers succeeded in discharges, but this may become harder.

Watch Out for Scams

Be cautious of companies promising quick relief for a fee.

Visit studentaid.gov for official information and scam alerts.

For more tips and updates on student loans, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Rain chances climb this week, strong to severe storms possible Tuesday

ABC13 Houston
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Rain chances climb this week, strong to severe storms possible Tuesday

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — After a picture-perfect weekend, rain chances climb this week with the potential for strong to severe storms multiple days this week. Tuesday is an ABC13 Weather Watch Day with the potential for severe storms across Southeast Texas.

Along with the risk of severe weather, flooding will be possible especially for some of our northern counties. A Flood Watch in effect Tuesday for parts of southeast Texas, including the following counties: Brazos, Grimes, Houston, Madison, Polk, San Jacinto, Trinity and Walker.

Clouds will build on Monday as temperatures climb into the low 80s. One big difference for Monday though is increasing humidity, which will allow for a few showers and storms to develop in the afternoon and evening. Best chance for rain Monday will be west of I-45, but we can’t rule out a shower or storms getting close to the Beltway or Houston Monday during the evening commute.

What’s on the horizon for this week?

After a gorgeous weekend of calm weather conditions, rain chances return as early as Monday afternoon with even more rain in the coming days. An upper-level low will spin up showers and thunderstorms to Southeast Texas for Tuesday and Wednesday, some of which could be strong to severe. Rain chances for each day are 60 to 80% at this time, meaning there’s a good chance you’ll get some rain either or both days. Then that low lingers over the Southeast Thursday and Friday, so we cant completely rule out a few showers each day.

How about the ABC13 Weather Watch Day for Tuesday?

Tuesday is an ABC13 Weather Watch Day because of the potential for strong to severe storms. Almost all of Southeast Texas is included in a Slight Risk for storms from the Storm Prediction Center Tuesday. A warm front will lift through Southeast Texas Tuesday afternoon, paving the way for storms that could produce hail, damaging winds and a few tornadoes. Street and area flooding isn’t out of the question either as rainfall rates could be around 1 to 3 inches an hour within some of the largest storms.

How much rain are we talking?

Depends on the intensity of the showers and storms and how many roll through your neighborhood. But on average most of Southeast Texas will pick up around 1 to 3 inches of rain this week. Some areas could see more though, which is why there’s a localized flood concern. Flash flooding could be a localized threat when the heavy rain falls Tuesday and Wednesday.

And any early indications for Mother’s Day weekend?

Thankfully it looks like that upper-level low will finally pull away from the region by next weekend, leaving behind a calmer weekend of weather, potentially similar to that of this weekend. There is a 20% chance for a stray shower Saturday. Mother’s Day Sunday is dry at this time. Both days will be partly cloudy with a mild morning and warm afternoon.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Keep up with all things Houston with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Lady Gaga Sets World Record with Historic 2.5 Million-Person Concert in Brazil

Indira Zaldivar
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Lady Gaga Sets World Record with Historic 2.5 Million-Person Concert in Brazil

Pop Icon Performs for Largest Crowd in Music History

U.S. pop sensation Lady Gaga has officially made history by performing for what is now the largest concert audience ever recorded.

According to concert promoter Live Nation, an estimated 2.5 million people gathered on Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on Saturday night to witness the landmark performance.

The massive turnout sets a new global record for concert attendance, marking the largest crowd ever for a single live performance—particularly by a woman in music history.

An Emotional Milestone for Lady Gaga

Still overwhelmed by the magnitude of the event, Lady Gaga took to social media platform X on Sunday to reflect on the unforgettable night.

“Nothing could prepare me for the feeling I had during last night’s show — the absolute pride and joy I felt singing for the people of Brazil. The sight of the crowd during my opening songs took my breath away,” she wrote.

Gaga, known for her emotional connection with fans and theatrical stage presence, expressed deep appreciation for the energy and culture of her Brazilian audience.

“Your heart shines so bright, your culture is so vibrant and special, I hope you know how grateful I am to have shared this historical moment with you,” she added.

A Message of Empowerment and Resilience

More than just a performance, Gaga’s message to her fans struck a chord around the world. Reflecting on the scale of the night, she framed the concert as a celebration of perseverance and self-belief.

“An estimated 2.5 million people came to see me sing, the biggest crowd for any woman in history. I wish I could share this feeling with the whole world — I know I can’t, but I can say this — if you lose your way, you can find your way back if you believe in yourself and work hard. You can give yourself dignity by rehearsing your passion and your craft, pushing yourself to new heights — you can lift yourself up even if it takes some time.”

A Cultural Moment Etched in Music History

The event has quickly become one of the most talked-about musical moments of the decade, symbolizing not just Gaga’s global impact, but also the power of music to unite millions in a single, shared experience. Set against the backdrop of Rio’s iconic coastline, the concert reaffirmed Lady Gaga’s place among the most influential and beloved performers of all time.

For more content on world-record-setting pop superstar Lady Gaga, keep up with us on Que Onda Magazine.

1 dead, 13 injured in shooting at family gathering in southeast Houston, HPD says

ABC13 Houston
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1 dead, 13 injured in shooting at family gathering in southeast Houston, HPD says

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — One person is dead, and more than a dozen others were injured when a shooting broke out during a family gathering in southeast Houston, police said.

The shooting happened just before 1 a.m. Sunday in the 6000 block of Cherryhill. According to police, a family gathering was taking place when an uninvited guest arrived. The guest was asked to leave, and police said he did, but not before firing as he left. Gunfire was also returned from many residents at the scene.

Officers said that as they were arriving, they heard gunshots and saw the injured victims in various locations around the home.

The Houston Police Department said officers created a plan to go to a nearby Jack in the Box to bring the injured victims. Houston Fire Department crews arrived and began tending to the victims, but police said people continued to call about shootings in the area.

In total, 14 people were injured. Police said three were taken to Jack in the Box, some self-reported to hospitals, and at least one died.

Multiple victims were critically injured and are in surgery, and a few of them are stable.

According to police, multiple people were detained.

Brandon Angel told ABC13 he was there as shots were fired and he feared for his life.

“You just see a lot of people start scattering, people on floor, everybody trying to get cover, people pushing other people,” Angel said.

He also said it was scary as everyone started running for safety.

“We tried to get out as fast as we could, and whenever I got to the corner store to wait for my brother, I got detained,” Angel said.

Neither the identities of the suspects nor the victims have been released.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

President Sheinbaum Rejects Trump’s Proposal to Send U.S. Troops into Mexico

Edward Saenz
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President Sheinbaum Rejects Trump’s Proposal to Send U.S. Troops into Mexico

Tense Phone Call Sparks Debate Over U.S.-Mexico Military Cooperation

President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico revealed on Saturday that President Donald Trump proposed sending American troops into Mexico to assist in the fight against drug trafficking. Speaking to supporters in eastern Mexico, Sheinbaum firmly stated that she rejected the idea.

According to Sheinbaum, the proposal came during a tense phone call last month. The conversation, reported by The Wall Street Journal, allegedly involved Trump pressuring her administration to accept greater U.S. military involvement in operations against Mexican drug cartels.

A Firm Rejection in Defense of National Sovereignty

“He said, ‘How can we help you fight drug trafficking? I propose that the United States military come in and help you.’ And you know what I said to him? ‘No, President Trump,’” Sheinbaum told the crowd.

She doubled down on her position, adding: “Sovereignty is not for sale. Sovereignty is loved and defended.”

No Immediate Response from the White House

The White House did not immediately issue a response to Sheinbaum’s public remarks. Her comments, however, are likely to add fuel to ongoing debates about U.S. involvement in foreign drug enforcement, especially in Latin America.

Escalating U.S. Military Presence at the Southern Border

In recent months, the U.S. military has significantly increased its presence along the southern border. Following Trump’s January order, the U.S. Northern Command deployed more troops and equipment, ramped up surveillance operations to track fentanyl trafficking, and sought expanded permissions for U.S. Special Forces to cooperate with Mexican units.

Trump further escalated the issue on February 19 by officially designating many drug cartels operating across the border as foreign terrorist organizations, giving U.S. authorities additional tools to restrict their movements and crack down on their operations.

A Collision Course Between Allies

Despite a history of bilateral cooperation on trade and immigration, Sheinbaum’s remarks signaled a sharp divergence from Trump’s approach to cross-border security. Her refusal to allow U.S. military forces into Mexican territory highlights a broader effort to assert national independence in matters of internal security.

“We can work together, but you in your territory and us in ours,” Sheinbaum stated.

The crowd erupted in applause when she delivered her final, resolute declaration: “We will never accept the presence of the United States military in our territory.”

Keep up with the historic administration of Mexico’s first female president with us on Que Onda Magazine.

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