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Emergency Alerts 101: What Houston’s Hispanic Families Need to Know Before the Next Storm

Que Onda Editorial
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Emergency Alerts 101: What Houston’s Hispanic Families Need to Know Before the Next Storm

Emergency Alerts 101: What Houston’s Hispanic Families Need to Know Before the Next Storm

Houston’s hurricane season waits for no one, and missing a critical alert can cost precious time. Many Hispanic families in our community still aren’t fully set up to receive Houston emergency alerts when storms or floods hit. This guide breaks down how to get the right warnings on your phone, sign up for ReadyHarris and AlertHouston, and trust the alerts that keep your family safe. Keep reading for simple steps to protect what matters most before the next storm arrives. For more information, visit houstonemergency.org.

Understanding Houston Emergency Alerts

Navigating Houston’s emergency alert system can seem overwhelming, but it’s crucial for staying safe. Getting familiar with the types of alerts and where to find reliable information is your first step.

Types of Alerts to Know

Let’s break down the key alerts you should be aware of. Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) are sent directly to your phone without any need to sign up. These include AMBER Alerts for missing children and urgent weather warnings like flood alerts. Another essential tool is the FEMA app, which offers real-time updates on emergencies. The app covers everything from hurricane season Houston updates to potential power outage updates. Keep your phone ready to receive these alerts by checking your notification settings.

You might also want to invest in a NOAA Weather Radio Houston. This device provides continuous updates from the National Weather Service, ensuring you have access to vital information even if the power goes out. In fact, most families find that having multiple alert sources is a lifesaver during storms. Remember, the more prepared you are, the safer you’ll be.

Trusted Sources for Information

When emergencies strike, knowing where to find accurate information is vital. ReadyHarris and AlertHouston are two primary sources for local alerts. They offer updates on everything from flood warnings Houston to evacuation notices. You can also turn to the City of Houston OEM website for official updates. They collaborate with local broadcasters like ABC13 Houston weather and Telemundo Houston news to relay crucial information.

For more detailed planning and to see how different communities prepare, check out this emergency planning report. Trusting official channels helps you avoid misinformation and ensures you’re always getting the most accurate updates.

Preparing Your Family for Emergencies

Equipping your family with a solid plan is next on the list. From creating a checklist to setting up your devices, every step counts in preparing for a storm.

Creating a Storm Preparedness Checklist

Creating a storm preparedness checklist is your key to staying organized. Start by listing essential items like water, non-perishable food, and a first-aid kit. It’s important to have enough supplies to last at least three days. Don’t forget to include medications and important documents, like IDs and insurance policies, in a waterproof container.

Another critical component is to plan your evacuation route. Know where the nearest shelters are and have a map handy in case GPS fails. You can find shelter locations and more planning resources at Houston OEM. Remember, being prepared is not just smart; it’s necessary for your family’s safety.

Setting Up Your Devices for Alerts

Your smartphone is a powerful tool in emergency preparedness. Make sure it’s set up to receive bilingual alerts Houston if you prefer updates in Spanish. Go to your settings and turn on emergency alerts. Download the FEMA app for additional coverage and ensure push notifications are enabled.

For those who prefer more traditional methods, consider the NOAA Weather Radio Houston. It’s a reliable backup that keeps you connected to the latest updates, especially during power outages. Set it to alert mode and test it regularly to ensure it’s working properly. By taking these steps, you’re setting up a robust alert system that keeps your family informed and ready for any situation.

How to Stay Safe During a Storm

When a storm hits, having a plan and knowing where to find help can make all the difference. Let’s explore how to stay safe and avoid common pitfalls.

Accessing Shelters and Assistance

Knowing where to find shelter is crucial during severe weather. The City of Houston OEM and Harris County emergency services provide information on available shelters. Keep a list of these locations, and prioritize those that are pet-friendly if needed. You can also visit NEHouston Get Ready for more detailed shelter and assistance information.

Once you arrive at a shelter, follow all posted guidelines to ensure safety. Many facilities offer additional support, such as food and medical assistance. Remember, the sooner you seek shelter, the better your chances of staying safe.

Avoiding Misinformation and Scams

During emergencies, misinformation can spread quickly. Stick to trusted sources like ReadyHarris, AlertHouston, and official city channels. Be wary of social media posts that aren’t from verified accounts. Scammers often take advantage of crises, so never share personal information unless you’re sure of the source.

For tips on recognizing trustworthy information, check out this CERT site. Educating yourself on these practices keeps you and your family safe from misinformation and scams, ensuring you make informed decisions during emergencies.

By taking these steps, you’re not just preparing for a storm; you’re becoming part of a community that prioritizes safety and readiness. Stay informed, stay prepared, and keep your family safe with the tools and resources available to you.

Psychologist warns against social media’s addictive impact on teenagers

ABC13 Houston
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Psychologist warns against social media’s addictive impact on teenagers

By Mo Haider, ABC13 Houston

Social media has become part of everyday life: scrolling, clicking, swiping, all at your fingertips. It has not only become a major distraction, but health professionals say its addictive nature can lead to long-term problems, particularly for children.

Dr. Daniel Flint, a psychologist in the Department of Adolescent Medicine at Texas Children’s Hospital, said social media is having a negative effect on the majority of his patients, and he’s concerned about how it’ll get in the way of more productive activities.

“From a psychological and behavioral reinforcement perspective, it has the same addictive properties as a slot machine because it’s really interesting at various different intervals,” Flint said.

Flint said that given social media’s addictive nature, it can be easy for a young person to get distracted from more productive hobbies and school.

“You have a teen, who doesn’t have a developed prefrontal cortex yet and isn’t able to make executive decisions, like ‘maybe this isn’t good for me, it’s recipe for disaster.'”

In fact, a 2025 Pew Research Center survey found that 45% of teens said they spend too much time on social media, with 25% of teenage girls saying social media hurts their mental health. For teenage boys, that number was 14%.

A civil trial in Los Angeles is underway over claims that social media platforms are addictive. Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta Platforms, testified in court, pushing back against those allegations.

Flint said his worry about young people who spend too much time scrolling is the impact it could have on their future.

“There’s pretty strong research literature linking increased social media use with body image dissatisfaction, depression, anxiety rates, as well as decreased overall functioning and ability to cope with stress,” Flint said. “So I would imagine that for a child who has grown up in this generation, they’re going to enter adulthood with a lower threshold of capacity to solve their problems.”

As families navigate raising children in the digital era, some countries around the world are cracking down on social media use. Australia has banned access for anyone under 16, and France has passed similar legislation for those under 15.

“There are rules and regulations on the ages at which you can do other things? I think we need to have clear research in terms of knowing better what age is, is what damaging, and how can we help parents know what’s happening,” Flint said, adding that he recommends parents take their time and wait before they decide on giving their child a smartphone.

For updates, follow Mo Haider on Facebook, X and Instagram.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

For more Houston headlines, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Soupy air brings more fog, but winter temps are back in Houston next week

ABC13 Houston
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Soupy air brings more fog, but winter temps are back in Houston next week

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Spring air has settled into Southeast Texas but not for long. A cold front arriving Saturday will bring that winter feel back to Houston and have as reaching for our jackets a few days next week.

Sea fog has formed along the coast, and a Dense Fog Advisory is in effect until 9 am Friday for many inland counties and until noon for our coastal waters.

Temperatures will again have a tough time dropping below 70 degrees, and highs will again top out around 80. A cold front will nose into Southeast Texas and then stall out somewhere near or north of Houston. That front will get another kick to the south on Saturday.

What is the cold front expected to do to our weather this weekend?

The cold front should push through Southeast Texas during the day on Saturday, but it only has a 10% chance of producing any rain and no severe weather is expected. Temperatures on Saturday could still get close to 80 ahead of the front, but it will feel like we are back in winter on Sunday with lows in the mid 40s and highs in the mid 60s. The north wind blowing up to 20 mph will also add an extra chill to the air, even with a mostly sunny sky.

Could we get another freeze or frost this season?

Yes! We know it already feels like we’ve launched into the spring season, but the air coming in behind our next cold front could send us down into frost territory Monday night and Tuesday morning. On average, Houston’s last freeze occurs around Valentine’s Day with the last frost the first week of March.

With it feeling more like spring, any signs of oak pollen yet?

Nope, not yet! Tree pollen has been a bit high this week with counts of Cedar, Birch and Elm. Mold spore counts have also increased this week because of the humidity.

13 ALERT RADAR MAPS:
Southeast Texas
Houston
Harris County
Galveston County
Montgomery/Walker/San Jacinto/Polk/Grimes Counties
Fort Bend/Wharton/Colorado Counties
Brazoria/Matagorda Counties

Have weather tips, videos, and photos?

Send it to ABC13 using the form below. If you have a video or photo to send, terms of use apply. If you don’t, just hit ‘skip upload’ and send the details.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

For more Houston headlines, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine!

Milan–Cortina 2026: Winter Olympics Highlights, Medal Table Leaders and Men’s Hockey Semifinals

Michael Esparza
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Milan–Cortina 2026: Winter Olympics Highlights, Medal Table Leaders and Men’s Hockey Semifinals

Overview of Milan–Cortina 2026 so far

The 2026 Winter Olympics are underway in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, marking the first time two cities officially share hosting duties. As a result, events take place across several clusters, combining big-city arenas in Milan with classic alpine venues in the Dolomites.

The Games run from February 6 to 22, with thousands of athletes competing in skiing, skating, hockey, sliding sports, and new disciplines. Meanwhile, fans are filling arenas and mountain venues as the medal table tightens heading into the final days.

Men’s ice hockey at Milan–Cortina 2026

At this stage, the tournament has reached the semifinals, with Canada, the United States, Slovakia, and Finland forming the final four. Team USA advanced after an overtime win against Sweden, while Canada, Slovakia, and Finland also secured dramatic victories in their quarterfinal matchups. Consequently, power rankings slightly favor Canada and the U.S., but Slovakia and Finland remain dangerous opponents with strong goaltending and disciplined defense.

The gold-medal game will take place on the final weekend of the Games, and all four remaining teams still have a realistic path to the podium. With NHL talent spread across the semifinal lineups, the men’s hockey tournament has become one of the most closely watched events in Milan–Cortina.

Medal table and standout nations

As of writing this, Norway leads the overall medal count with a deep haul across cross-country skiing, biathlon, and other snow events. Meanwhile, Italy and the United States are close behind, boosted by home-ice and home-snow success for Italy and a strong all-around program for Team USA.

Here is the current top of the medal table:

RankCountryGoldSilverBronzeTotal
1Norway1681034
2United States912627
3Italy951226
4Japan571224
5Germany58821
6France68519
7Austria58518
8Netherlands67316
9Sweden66315
10Canada45615
11Switzerland64414
12China33410
13South Korea2237
14Great Britain3003
15Czech Republic2204
16Slovenia2114
17Spain1012
18Finland0145
19Brazil1001
19Kazakhstan1001
21Poland0314
22New Zealand0213

Overall, Norway’s depth in endurance and snow events continues to drive its dominance, while Italy’s home advantage shows in alpine skiing and sliding sports. At the same time, the United States remains strong across ice events such as figure skating, snowboarding, and hockey, while Japan, Germany, and France add balance in both ice and snow disciplines.

Big moments and star performances

American athletes have produced several headline moments in Milan–Cortina. For example, figure skater Alysa Liu became the first U.S. woman to win Olympic gold in figure skating since 2002, and the U.S. women’s hockey team claimed gold in a dramatic final. In addition, stars in alpine skiing, snowboarding, and speed skating continue to chase records, with multiple Olympic champions attempting to add to their medal collections.

New Olympic events such as ski mountaineering have opened the door for different nations and athletes to reach the podium. Consequently, these additions expand the range of sports on display and reflect the evolving nature of winter competition.

New events, venues, and what’s next

Milan–Cortina 2026, the first co-hosted Winter Games, spreads events across urban arenas and historic alpine venues to reduce costs and reuse existing infrastructure. Therefore, organizers hope this approach will become a model for future Olympics by balancing spectacle with sustainability.

With only a few days left, key medals remain up for grabs in men’s and women’s hockey, alpine skiing, speed skating, and team events. Finally, the closing ceremony at Verona Arena will cap a Games defined by shared hosting, historic venues, and a tight medal race among traditional winter powers and emerging contenders.

Former Prince Andrew Arrested Over Misconduct Linked to Epstein Files

Michael Esparza
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Former Prince Andrew Arrested Over Misconduct Linked to Epstein Files

Former Prince Andrew, now Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, faces questioning by U.K. police over alleged misconduct in public office connected to his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. Police say renewed attention to documents and communications from U.S. investigations into Epstein triggered the arrest. The case has turned Andrew into the first senior British royal in centuries to face arrest.

Investigators say they are looking at how he used his position as a U.K. trade envoy. They want to know whether he shared official information for Epstein’s benefit. Andrew continues to deny any sexual assault allegations from earlier cases. Authorities have not filed formal charges yet and continue to review the evidence.

What the Epstein files show

The “Epstein files” include emails, flight logs, legal filings, and other records from U.S. cases. These documents give a clearer picture of Epstein’s social and business network. They also highlight how often Andrew met with Epstein and visited his homes.

Earlier U.S. court documents named Andrew among more than a hundred people tied to Epstein. Not everyone on those lists faced criminal accusations, but the files raised new questions about Andrew’s conduct. Critics want to know if he used inside information from his trade role to help Epstein. Legal experts say misconduct in public office often involves a serious breach of public trust.

Andrew’s long relationship with Epstein

Andrew met Epstein in the late 1990s through Ghislaine Maxwell. Over the years, he stayed at Epstein’s properties and socialized with him in public. In 2010, photographers captured Andrew walking with Epstein in New York, after Epstein’s conviction for sex offenses. Many people in the U.K. saw that image as proof of his poor judgment.

In 2019, Andrew tried to defend himself in a televised interview. The appearance damaged his image even more and pushed him to step back from royal duties. The royal household later removed his military titles and royal patronages. In 2022, he reached a financial settlement with Virginia Giuffre, who accused him of abusing her when she was 17. He has always denied the allegations, and the settlement included no admission of guilt, but his public standing never recovered.

Reaction in the U.K. and beyond

The arrest has reignited debate about power, privilege, and accountability within the monarchy. Critics argue that the case exposes long-standing concerns about how the system treats royals in scandal. They also question the use of public roles and taxpayer-funded support for members of the royal family.

Buckingham Palace has offered only brief, cautious comments. Earlier statements made clear that Andrew would not return to official public duties. Activists and some lawmakers now call for more transparency and stronger oversight of royal conduct. They want clearer rules for royals who hold or once held public positions.

What happens next

Andrew has left police custody while investigators decide on possible charges. They will weigh the strength of the evidence and the public interest in a prosecution. The outcome could range from no further action to a historic criminal trial.

Regardless of the legal result, the scandal has already reshaped Andrew’s legacy. His ties to Epstein now dominate public discussion of his life and career. The case also remains a major challenge for the royal family as it tries to protect its image and relevance.

Premio Lo Nuestro 2026 Winners: Bad Bunny Dominates With Artist of the Year

Indira Zaldivar
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Premio Lo Nuestro 2026 Winners: Bad Bunny Dominates With Artist of the Year

Latin music’s biggest stars gathered for Premio Lo Nuestro 2026, where Bad Bunny emerged as the night’s biggest winner, taking home six trophies — including the top honors for Artist of the Year, Song of the Year, and Album of the Year.

The Puerto Rican global superstar continues his record-breaking momentum following his recent high-profile performances and career milestones. Hosted by Thalía, Nadia Ferreira, and Clarissa Molina, the ceremony celebrated the most influential artists across genres including urban, pop, tropical, and Mexican music.

Bad Bunny Leads the Night With Six Awards

Bad Bunny not only secured Artist of the Year, but also won:

  • Song of the Year for “DTMF”
  • Album of the Year for Debí Tirar Más Fotos
  • Urban Male Artist of the Year
  • Pop/Urban Song of the Year (“DTMF”)
  • Tropical Collaboration of the Year with Los Pleneros de la Cresta

His continued dominance reflects his influence across multiple genres and global audiences.

Other Major Winners: Carín León, Karol G, Shakira and More

Regional Mexican star Carín León followed closely with five awards, including Crossover Collaboration of the Year with Kacey Musgraves and Mexican Music Male Artist of the Year.

Several artists earned multiple wins:

  • Karol G (3)
  • Maluma (3)
  • Yuridia (3)
  • Shakira (2)
  • Feid (2)
  • Natti Natasha (2)
  • Majo Aguilar (2)
  • Cazzu (2)
  • Julión Álvarez y su Norteño Banda (2)

Special Honors Celebrate Latin Music Legends

This year’s ceremony also recognized influential careers and cultural contributions:

  • Arcángel — Urban Icon Award
  • Juanes — Lifetime Achievement Award
  • Los Bukis — Musical Legacy Award
  • Manolo Díaz — Visionary Award
  • Paloma San Basilio — Award for Excellence

Full List of Premio Lo Nuestro 2026 Winners

General Categories

  • Artist of the Year — Bad Bunny
  • Song of the Year — “Dtmf” – Bad Bunny
  • Album of the Year — Debí Tirar Más Fotos – Bad Bunny

Collaboration & Special Categories

  • Best Female Combination — “Brujería” – Yuridia & Majo Aguilar
  • Crossover Collaboration of the Year — “Lost in Translation” – Carín León & Kacey Musgraves
  • The Perfect Mix of the Year — “Que Me Quiera Ma’” – Marc Anthony & Wisin
  • Tour of the Year — Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour – Shakira
  • Male New Artist of the Year — Roa
  • Female New Artist of the Year — Camila Fernández
  • Christian Song of the Year — “Sonríele” – Daddy Yankee
  • Afrobeat of the Year — “Soleao” – Myke Towers & Quevedo

Urban Categories

  • Urban Male Artist of the Year — Bad Bunny
  • Urban Female Artist of the Year — Karol G
  • Urban Song of the Year — “Latina Foreva” – Karol G
  • Best Trap/Hip Hop Song — “Bum Bum” – El Alfa, Jon Z & Alofoke Music
  • Urban Collaboration of the Year — “+57” – Karol G, Feid, Dfzm, Ovy on the Drums, J Balvin, Maluma, Ryan Castro, Blessd
  • Best Dembow Song — “Dem Bow” – Natti Natasha, Nando Boom & Dímelo Flow
  • Urban Album of the Year — Ferxxo Vol X: Sagrado – Feid

Pop Categories

  • Pop Male Artist of the Year — Maluma
  • Pop Female Artist of the Year — Cazzu
  • Pop/Rock Group or Duo of the Year — Ha*Ash
  • Pop Song of the Year — “Con Otra” – Cazzu
  • Pop Collaboration of the Year — “Bésame” – Alejandro Sanz & Shakira
  • Pop/Ballad Song of the Year — “Querida Yo” – Yami Safdie & Camilo
  • Pop Album of the Year — Ya Es Mañana – Morat
  • Pop/Urban Collaboration of the Year — “Que Haces” – Becky G & Manuel Turizo
  • Pop/Urban Song of the Year — “Dtmf” – Bad Bunny
  • Pop/Rock Song of the Year — “Vivir Sin Aire” – Maná & Carín León
  • Pop/Urban Best Eurosong — “6 De Febrero” – Aitana

Tropical Categories

  • Tropical Artist of the Year — Romeo Santos
  • Tropical Song of the Year — “Tú Con Él” – Rauw Alejandro
  • Tropical Collaboration of the Year — “Café Con Ron” – Bad Bunny & Los Pleneros De La Cresta
  • Tropical Album of the Year — Natti Natasha En Amargue – Natti Natasha

Mexican Music Categories

  • Mexican Music Male Artist of the Year — Carín León
  • Mexican Music Female Artist of the Year — Majo Aguilar
  • Mexican Music Group or Duo of the Year — Julión Álvarez y Su Norteño Banda
  • Mexican Music Song of the Year — “El Amor De Mi Herida” – Carín León
  • Mexican Music Collaboration of the Year — “Si Tú Me Vieras” – Carín León & Maluma
  • Banda Song of the Year — “El Beneficio De La Duda” – Grupo Firme
  • Mariachi/Ranchera Song of the Year — “Sin Llorar” – Yuridia
  • Norteño Song of the Year — “Rey Sin Reina” – Julión Álvarez y Su Norteño Banda
  • Mexican Music Fusion of the Year — “No Capea” – Xavi & Grupo Frontera
  • Best Electro Corrido — “Triple Lavada Remix” – Esaú Ortiz, Luis R Conriquez, Oscar Maydon, Alemán ft. Victor Mendivil
  • Mexican Music Album of the Year — Sin Llorar – Yuridia

For the latest on Latino musicians and artists, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Zuckerberg Faces Lawmakers Over Child Safety, Antitrust Concerns at Meta

Que Onda Editorial
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Zuckerberg Faces Lawmakers Over Child Safety, Antitrust Concerns at Meta

Mark Zuckerberg appeared before lawmakers this week to defend his company’s handling of Instagram and Facebook as scrutiny intensifies over child safety, mental health concerns and the power of social media platforms.

Zuckerberg, the chief executive of Meta Platforms, was questioned by members of Congress about whether the company has done enough to protect young users from harmful content, online exploitation and addictive design features. Lawmakers from both parties pressed him on internal research and company practices related to teen mental health and the platforms’ recommendation algorithms.

The hearing comes amid broader legal and regulatory challenges facing Meta. In a separate antitrust case brought by the Federal Trade Commission, federal regulators argue the company maintained an illegal monopoly in social networking through its acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp. Meta has denied the allegations, saying the purchases were lawful and benefited consumers by improving the services.

Zuckerberg has also testified in civil litigation alleging that social media platforms were designed in ways that contribute to anxiety, depression and other harms among young users. In one high-profile case unfolding in Los Angeles Superior Court, plaintiffs claim Instagram’s features encouraged compulsive use among minors. Meta disputes those claims and says it has introduced safety tools, parental controls and age-verification measures to protect teens.

During questioning on Capitol Hill, lawmakers cited concerns about explicit content, cyberbullying and the spread of harmful material to children. Some called for stricter federal regulations, including stronger age restrictions and greater transparency about how algorithms promote content.

Zuckerberg defended the company’s efforts, pointing to investments in content moderation, artificial intelligence systems and safety teams. He said Meta has removed millions of accounts violating child safety policies and continues to refine its protections.

The renewed attention reflects a broader debate in Washington over the influence of social media companies and whether existing laws are sufficient to address concerns about competition, privacy and online safety.

Funding Lapse Prompts Restrictions on New FEMA Disaster Deployments

Edward Saenz
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Funding Lapse Prompts Restrictions on New FEMA Disaster Deployments

The U.S. government has imposed restrictions on new disaster deployments by the Federal Emergency Management Agency amid a partial funding lapse at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, raising concerns about potential delays in response efforts.

Internal guidance issued this week directs a pause on certain travel funded by DHS, including new FEMA deployments, unless trips receive specific approval as mission-critical. The move comes as lawmakers remain at an impasse over federal spending legislation, leaving portions of DHS without full appropriations.

More than 300 FEMA personnel who were preparing for assignments were told to stand down, including responders in training for deployment to disaster-affected areas, according to media reports citing internal communications.

Officials said personnel already deployed to active disaster zones will generally remain in place and that life-safety operations continue. A DHS spokesperson said the department is complying with federal law governing operations during a lapse in funding and is prioritizing essential missions.

FEMA’s disaster deployments are typically funded through its Disaster Relief Fund, which is designed to operate independently of routine agency budgets. However, the broader funding constraints have resulted in additional travel review requirements, a step some agency employees described as unusual during ongoing disaster operations.

The restrictions come as FEMA continues to respond to multiple declared disasters, including severe winter storms and other weather-related emergencies. Emergency management experts say rapid deployment of personnel is critical for conducting damage assessments, opening disaster recovery centers and coordinating aid to affected communities.

Lawmakers have not yet reached an agreement to restore full funding to DHS. Until a resolution is reached, FEMA personnel seeking to deploy on new assignments must obtain higher-level approval to travel, potentially slowing response timelines in some areas.

DHS officials said the department remains committed to supporting state and local partners and ensuring that urgent, life-saving operations are not interrupted.

Texas Sues Chemical Companies Over Plastic Pellet Pollution at Gulf Coast Plant

Edward Saenz
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Texas Sues Chemical Companies Over Plastic Pellet Pollution at Gulf Coast Plant

The State of Texas has filed a lawsuit against several major chemical manufacturers, alleging years of plastic pellet pollution and repeated wastewater violations at a Gulf Coast petrochemical complex.

The lawsuit, filed in Travis County district court by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton on behalf of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, targets Dow Hydrocarbons and Resources LLC, its subsidiary Union Carbide Corporation, and Braskem America Inc..

State officials allege the companies discharged plastic pellets — commonly known as “nurdles” — and other industrial waste into waterways near their manufacturing complex in Seadrift, about 130 miles southwest of Houston. The suit claims the companies have been in chronic violation of state environmental permits and water quality standards since at least 2020.

According to the state’s petition, investigators documented plastic pellets along shorelines, in canal systems and near wastewater outfalls connected to the facility. The lawsuit also alleges repeated exceedances of permitted limits for pollutants including oil and grease, chlorine and acidity levels.

Texas is seeking more than $1 million in civil penalties, along with a court order requiring the companies to halt unauthorized discharges, clean up affected areas and conduct an independent audit of wastewater and discharge practices.

The legal action follows a notice of intent to sue issued late last year by environmental advocates under the federal Clean Water Act. Under federal law, a state enforcement action can limit the ability of private groups to pursue separate litigation if regulators are actively prosecuting the case.

In a statement, a spokesperson for Union Carbide said the company works closely with regulators to comply with environmental laws but declined to comment on pending litigation. Representatives for Dow and Braskem did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Environmental groups have long raised concerns about plastic pellet pollution along the Texas coast, saying the small resin beads can persist in marine environments, harm wildlife and accumulate in bays and estuaries.

The lawsuit marks one of the most significant recent state-level enforcement actions involving plastic pellet pollution in Texas, a state that is home to one of the nation’s largest petrochemical manufacturing hubs.

Free Tax Preparation Help Available for Houston Seniors and Families

Indira Zaldivar
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Free Tax Preparation Help Available for Houston Seniors and Families

Harris County Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones is partnering with AARP to offer free tax preparation assistance to seniors and residents of all ages during the 2026 tax season.

The initiative aims to help families save money, avoid costly filing fees, and maximize eligible tax credits as many households continue to face rising living expenses. Services will be provided in both English and Spanish on a first-come, first-served basis, and no registration is required.

Who Can Get Help

The free assistance is open to:

  • Seniors
  • Working families
  • Individuals needing help filing taxes
  • Spanish- and English-speaking residents

Organizers say the program is designed to ensure residents keep more of their earnings while receiving accurate filing support from trained volunteers.

Locations, Dates, and Times

Residents can receive assistance at three Harris County community centers:

Radack Community Center
18650 Clay Road, Houston, TX 77084
Saturdays through March 28
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Tracy Gee Community Center
3599 Westcenter Drive, Houston, TX 77042
Mondays and Tuesdays through April 14
Noon – 4 p.m.

Fonteno Senior Education Center
6600 Bissonnet Street, Houston, TX 77074
Weekdays through April 15
9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Helping Residents Keep More Money

County leaders say free tax preparation services can make a meaningful financial difference for households, especially those eligible for credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Child Tax Credit.

Officials encourage community members to share the information with friends, family, and neighbors who may benefit from the program before tax deadlines arrive.

For more community resources, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

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