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Bertha brings scattered downpours and some gusty winds to Southeast Texas today

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Bertha brings scattered downpours and some gusty winds to Southeast Texas today

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Tropical Storm Bertha is moving across the upper Texas coast today, and we have an ABC13 Weather Watch for the possibility of strong storms and wind gusts over 40 mph.

The storm is also bringing some heat relief to much of Southeast Texas. Clouds have moved into Houston, helping keep afternoon highs closer to 90 degrees instead of near 100.

Tropical Storm Bertha Houston Impacts Today

Most of Southeast Texas should see limited disruptions from Bertha. However, scattered showers and thunderstorms may move through during the afternoon and evening.

The breeze will also increase as the storm passes nearby. In Houston, wind gusts could reach 30 to 40 mph at times. Along the coast, gusts could reach 40 to 50 mph.

Rain totals should generally stay below one inch for most areas. Still, higher totals are possible south of Houston, especially closer to Matagorda Bay.

Coastal Areas Under Tropical Storm Warning

The National Hurricane Center has issued a Tropical Storm Warning along parts of the Texas coast. The warning includes coastal sections of Brazoria and Galveston counties, along with all of Chambers County.

A Tropical Storm Warning means tropical storm conditions are likely. As Bertha moves through this afternoon and evening, coastal areas could see wind gusts over 40 mph.

Rough waters will also create concerns along the Gulf. Waves could reach 6 to 9 feet, so beachgoers and boaters should avoid dangerous conditions.

Heat Advisory Northwest of Houston

While Bertha’s clouds are cooling much of the Houston area, communities northwest of the city will stay hotter. Highs there may climb into the mid to upper 90s.

Feels-like temperatures could range from 105 to 110 degrees. Because of that heat, a Heat Advisory remains in effect until 7 p.m. for Walker, Brazos, Washington, Grimes, Montgomery, Colorado, Austin, Waller and Wharton counties.

Residents in those areas should limit time outside, drink water and check on older adults, young children and outdoor workers.

When Bertha Moves Out

Bertha should move away quickly. By Friday morning, Southeast Texas should be mostly done with the storm.

After that, drier weather returns. Rain chances this weekend should stay near 10%, and afternoon highs will climb back into the upper 90s.

Next week could bring several triple-digit days. Therefore, the short break from extreme heat may not last long.

No Other Tropical Threats Right Now

Forecasters are focused on Bertha and the Gulf today. At this time, there are no other tropical threats being tracked for the region.

For now, the main concerns are gusty winds, scattered storms, rough coastal waters and dangerous heat northwest of Houston. Residents should stay weather-aware through the evening and follow local alerts as Bertha moves across the upper Texas coast.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

University of Houston Core Curriculum Could Shrink Under New Texas Law

Que Onda Editorial
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University of Houston Core Curriculum Could Shrink Under New Texas Law

The University of Houston core curriculum could soon look much smaller as administrators review courses under a new Texas higher education law. UH may remove nearly 40% of its core curriculum options, or about 100 courses, from the list of classes that satisfy general education requirements.

The proposal remains in draft form. University officials said final decisions have not been made, and the UH System Board of Regents must approve any changes.

University of Houston Core Curriculum Faces Review

The review comes from Senate Bill 37, a Texas law passed in 2025. The law requires public universities to review core curriculum courses using new standards.

Under SB 37, core courses must meet several conditions. They must be foundational, support civic and professional life, prepare students for the workforce, and offer broad knowledge.

As a result, UH administrators reviewed every core course. A working group recommended keeping nearly 160 courses and removing roughly 100 others from the core.

However, removing a course from the core does not automatically cancel it. Students may still take some of those classes as electives or for major requirements.

Courses That Could Lose Core Status

The proposed changes include courses across several subjects. Classes such as “Intro to Global Climate Change,” “Black Liberation Theology,” “Introduction to Women’s Studies,” and “Introduction to LGBT Studies” appear among those recommended for removal.

The cuts do not only affect politically debated topics. Some race and ethnic studies courses could remain in the core, while others could lose core status.

Because core courses help students meet graduation requirements, the decision could affect enrollment. Courses outside the core often attract fewer students, especially from outside a major.

Therefore, faculty members worry that departments in the humanities and social sciences could lose visibility. They also worry that fewer options could create registration bottlenecks in remaining core classes.

Faculty Raise Concerns About Process

Some faculty members have criticized both the recommendations and the review process. Faculty groups have called on UH to halt the review.

Faculty critics argue that the university has interpreted SB 37 too broadly. They also say faculty members had limited involvement before the draft recommendations moved forward.

Meanwhile, UH officials have stressed that the process continues. The university has said the draft recommendations went to faculty for feedback and do not represent final decisions.

That distinction matters. The recommendations still need review from university leadership before they reach the UH System Board of Regents.

What It Means for Students

For students, the biggest concern may involve choice. A smaller core curriculum could limit how students explore subjects outside their major.

It could also affect graduation planning. If fewer core classes remain available, students may compete for seats in the same required areas.

At the same time, supporters of SB 37 say the law aims to keep core classes focused on foundational skills and workforce preparation. The debate now centers on how universities define those goals.

The UH System Board of Regents could consider final recommendations in August. Until then, students, faculty, and families will watch closely as the University of Houston core curriculum review continues.

The outcome could shape how future UH students meet general education requirements. It could also influence how Texas public universities balance workforce preparation, civic education, and broad academic study.

Houston Texans Training Camp Preview: Key Storylines for 2026

Michael Esparza
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Houston Texans Training Camp Preview: Key Storylines for 2026

Houston Texans training camp begins Wednesday, July 29, as the team starts preparations for its milestone 25th season. The Texans enter camp with high expectations after a 12-5 season, and fans will get their first close look at a roster built to compete in the AFC.

Rookies reported July 21, while veterans report July 28, according to NFL.com. The team will hold camp at the Houston Methodist Training Center.

Houston Texans Training Camp Schedule

The Texans announced eight practices that will be free and open to fans. Those practices will take place August 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 10 and 18.

Most open practices start at 9 a.m. However, the Saturday, August 8 practice begins at 6 p.m. The August 18 practice will also include a joint session with the Las Vegas Raiders.

In addition, the Texans will travel to Charlotte, North Carolina, for a joint practice with the Carolina Panthers before their preseason game on Friday, August 28. These joint practices should give coaches a better test of the roster before the regular season.

Fans can claim free practice tickets through the Texans’ official training camp ticket site. Because tickets are limited, fans should check availability early and monitor team updates for schedule changes.

Offensive Line Takes Center Stage

The offensive line may become the most important storyline of Houston Texans training camp. NFL.com called the line the Texans’ most glaring weakness from 2025, and the team made several moves to address it.

Houston added veteran linemen Wyatt Teller and Braden Smith in free agency. The team also drafted center/guard Keylan Rutledge in the first round.

As a result, training camp will help determine how quickly the new group can build chemistry. That matters because C.J. Stroud’s success depends heavily on cleaner pockets and better protection.

The Texans also return players such as Aireontae Ersery and Ed Ingram. Therefore, the competition up front should shape the offense before Week 1.

C.J. Stroud Leads a High-Expectations Offense

C.J. Stroud enters camp as the clear leader of the offense. The Texans roster lists Stroud alongside backup quarterbacks Davis Mills and Graham Mertz.

Stroud’s connection with Nico Collins remains one of Houston’s biggest strengths. Collins has become a central piece of the passing game, and his size and route-running give the Texans a reliable top target.

Meanwhile, Tank Dell’s role will draw attention after past injury setbacks. If Dell can stay healthy and regain his explosiveness, Houston’s passing attack could become more dangerous.

The running back room also features new and returning options. David Montgomery and Woody Marks give the Texans different styles, while younger backs will compete for depth and special teams roles.

Defense Still Drives Houston’s Identity

DeMeco Ryans has built the Texans around speed, discipline and defensive pressure. That identity should continue in 2026.

Houston’s defense includes major names such as Will Anderson Jr., Derek Stingley Jr., Jalen Pitre, Azeez Al-Shaair and Kamari Lassiter. Together, that group gives the Texans talent at every level.

Still, training camp will test the team’s depth. Injuries often decide NFL seasons, so coaches will look closely at backup defensive linemen, linebackers and defensive backs.

Joint practices should also reveal how Houston’s defense handles different offensive styles. Those sessions often show more than a normal practice because players face unfamiliar opponents.

What Fans Should Watch

Fans should watch three major areas during camp: offensive line chemistry, receiver health and defensive depth. Those questions could decide how quickly the Texans start the season.

The team already has playoff expectations. However, camp will show whether Houston has enough balance to challenge the AFC’s top teams.

For local fans, Houston Texans training camp offers the first real sign of football season. It also gives the community a chance to see how Stroud, Ryans and the roster are preparing for another important year.

Galaxy Unpacked 2026 Reveals New Samsung Foldables, Watches and AI Features

Michael Esparza
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Galaxy Unpacked 2026 Reveals New Samsung Foldables, Watches and AI Features

Galaxy Unpacked 2026 gave Samsung fans a new look at the company’s next generation of foldable phones, smartwatches, and AI tools. Samsung hosted the event in London on Wednesday, July 22, and introduced three new foldables: the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold8, and Galaxy Z Flip8.

The company also announced the Galaxy Watch9 and Galaxy Watch Ultra2. In addition, Samsung shared a fresh preview of smart glasses developed with Google, Warby Parker, and Gentle Monster.

Galaxy Unpacked 2026 Focuses on Foldables

Samsung used Galaxy Unpacked 2026 to push foldable phones further into the premium market. The biggest announcement was the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, a high-end foldable built for users who want a larger screen, stronger cameras, and more multitasking power.

The Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra starts at $2,100, according to Engadget. It includes an 8-inch inner display, a 6.5-inch outer display, and a 200-megapixel main camera. It also has a 5,000mAh battery and supports 45W fast charging.

Samsung also introduced the Galaxy Z Fold8, which starts at $1,900. Unlike past models, this version uses a wider design when folded. As a result, the phone may feel more natural for reading, gaming, and browsing.

Meanwhile, the Galaxy Z Flip8 continues Samsung’s compact flip-phone lineup. It starts at $1,200 and includes a 4.1-inch outer screen, a 6.9-inch inner display, and a 50-megapixel main camera.

Samsung Adds More AI Features

Artificial intelligence played a major role throughout the event. Samsung and Google highlighted new AI tools designed to help users complete tasks across apps, organize information, and edit media faster.

For example, the new foldables include Gemini-powered task automation. According to Engadget, the feature supports more than 40 apps and can help with actions such as ordering food or finding event tickets.

Samsung also added Gemini Notebook to the new foldables. The app helps users organize notes, documents, and research in one place.

In addition, Samsung introduced new creative tools for video. A Fan Cam feature can recrop video around one person and keep that person in frame as they move. Therefore, the tool could appeal to concertgoers, creators, and sports fans.

Galaxy Watch9 and Watch Ultra2 Join the Lineup

Samsung also refreshed its wearable lineup. The Galaxy Watch9 brings a larger battery than the previous model, while keeping a bright display and health-focused tools.

The Galaxy Watch Ultra2 targets users who want a tougher smartwatch with longer battery life and premium features. It starts at $699, according to Engadget.

Both watches run on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Wear Elite chipset. As a result, Samsung is also bringing more AI support to the wrist.

Smart Glasses Get a Preview

Samsung did not make smart glasses the main event. However, the company offered another look at eyewear developed with Google, Warby Parker, and Gentle Monster.

The glasses use Android XR technology and connect with Google’s Gemini AI. Samsung has not announced pricing or a release date yet. Still, the preview shows that the company wants Galaxy devices to move beyond phones and watches.

When the New Galaxy Devices Arrive

Preorders for the new Galaxy devices began after the event. Engadget reported that the phones and watches will reach stores on August 7.

Samsung’s latest launch shows how quickly mobile technology is shifting toward foldables, wearables, and AI-powered tools. For consumers, Galaxy Unpacked 2026 offered a clear message: Samsung wants its Galaxy lineup to feel more flexible, more connected, and more useful in everyday life.

Grupo Frontera Houston Concert Brings Regional Mexican Hits to Toyota Center

Que Onda Editorial
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Grupo Frontera Houston Concert Brings Regional Mexican Hits to Toyota Center

Grupo Frontera Houston fans will fill Toyota Center tonight, Thursday, July 23, as the group brings its Triste Pero Bien C*brón Tour to downtown Houston. The concert starts at 8 p.m., with doors scheduled to open at 7 p.m.

The show gives local fans a chance to hear one of regional Mexican music’s biggest acts live. It also adds another major Latin music event to Houston’s busy summer concert calendar.

Grupo Frontera Houston Show Details

Grupo Frontera will perform at Toyota Center, located at 1510 Polk Street in Houston. According to Toyota Center and AXS, the concert begins at 8 p.m.

In addition, AXS lists doors for 7 p.m. Fans should plan for downtown traffic, parking delays, and security screening before entering the venue.

Ticket availability may change throughout the day. AXS lists tickets for the show, while Ticketmaster lists resale options. Visit Houston previously listed prices starting at $65 and noted the event time as 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Triste Pero Bien C*brón Tour Comes to Texas

The Houston concert is part of Grupo Frontera’s Triste Pero Bien C*brón Tour. After the Toyota Center show, the group’s schedule continues in Texas with a Dallas concert at American Airlines Center on Friday, July 24.

The tour follows Grupo Frontera’s rapid rise from the Rio Grande Valley to national stages. Their sound blends norteño, cumbia, ranchera, and pop influences.

As a result, the group has reached fans across generations. Their music connects with listeners who grew up with regional Mexican traditions and younger audiences discovering the genre through streaming platforms.

A Big Night for Regional Mexican Music

Grupo Frontera has become one of the most recognizable names in modern regional Mexican music. The group gained wide attention with songs that mix romantic lyrics, accordion-driven arrangements, and polished live energy.

Their collaborations also helped expand their audience. Songs with major Latin artists introduced Grupo Frontera to fans beyond the traditional regional Mexican scene.

However, the group’s core appeal remains close to home. Their music reflects border culture, heartbreak, family gatherings, and dance-floor moments familiar to many Texas Latino communities.

For Houston fans, that connection matters. The city has long supported norteño, Tejano, cumbia, banda, and other regional styles. Therefore, Grupo Frontera’s Toyota Center stop fits naturally into Houston’s Latin music landscape.

What Fans Should Know Before Going

Fans heading to the concert should check their tickets before arriving. They should also review Toyota Center’s bag policy, parking guidance, and mobile ticket instructions.

Because the show starts at 8 p.m., early arrival may help avoid delays. Downtown Houston traffic can build quickly before major arena events.

Fans using rideshare services should also allow extra time after the concert. Large crowds often create pickup delays near the venue.

Most importantly, concertgoers should confirm details through Toyota Center or their ticket provider before leaving. Event times, entry rules, and ticket availability can change.

Grupo Frontera Houston fans can expect a night built around regional Mexican pride, singalong hits, and a strong Texas crowd. For many, tonight’s concert will be more than a tour stop. It will be a celebration of music that continues to shape Latino culture across Houston and beyond.

Southwest Freeway HOV Crash Injures Three Women Near Beltway 8

Que Onda Editorial
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Southwest Freeway HOV Crash Injures Three Women Near Beltway 8

A Southwest Freeway HOV crash caused major delays Wednesday evening after a vehicle fell from an elevated HOV lane onto the northbound lanes near Beltway 8 in Houston. Authorities said three women inside the vehicle went to a hospital and are expected to survive.

Southwest Freeway HOV Crash Shuts Down Northbound Lanes

The crash happened Wednesday, July 22, near IH-69 Southwest Freeway and Beltway 8 West. The vehicle landed on the main lanes below, so officials closed the northbound freeway.

Lt. Terry Garza with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office said the crash caused major backups in the area. Meanwhile, first responders worked along the northbound main lanes between West Bellfort and Beltway 8.

By Thursday morning, July 23, crews had cleared the scene and reopened the northbound lanes, according to local traffic reports. As a result, traffic returned to normal after several hours of delays on Houston’s southwest side.

What Authorities Say Happened

Houston METRO Police said preliminary information showed the driver lost control of the vehicle. Then, the car struck the HOV barrier, became airborne, and landed on the freeway below.

KPRC reported that police said the car had traveled southbound in the HOV lane. After that, authorities said the vehicle turned toward a park-and-ride area before going through the barrier.

FOX 26 reported that officials believed the vehicle may have traveled at a high rate of speed. However, investigators had not released a final cause as of Thursday morning.

Three Women Taken to Hospital

Authorities said three women were inside the car when it fell from the HOV lane. Emergency crews took them to local hospitals after the crash.

Houston police said the women should survive. Also, KPRC reported that authorities described their injuries as non-life-threatening and said the women were conscious and talking after the crash.

Drivers at the scene tried to help before emergency crews completed the rescue. In fact, KPRC reported that some used sledgehammers while trying to free the women from the vehicle.

Investigation Continues

Houston police and METRO Police continue to investigate the crash. So far, officials have not released the names of the women involved.

Authorities also have not announced whether they will file any charges or citations. Next, investigators may review the crash scene and available camera footage before releasing more details.

The incident also renewed concerns about serious crashes near elevated freeway ramps and HOV lanes. Therefore, drivers should expect emergency closures and sudden delays after major wrecks on busy corridors like IH-69.

For Houston-area commuters, the crash is a reminder to slow down near ramps, barriers, and merge points. Before heading out, drivers traveling through the Southwest Freeway and Beltway 8 area should check real-time traffic updates.

Houston FIFA World Cup Success Tops One Million Participants

Que Onda Editorial
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Houston FIFA World Cup Success Tops One Million Participants

Houston FIFA World Cup success reached a major milestone after more than one million participants attended tournament-related events across the city. The FIFA World Cup 2026™ Houston Host Committee released final data showing strong attendance, smooth operations and lasting community impact.

Houston FIFA World Cup Success by the Numbers

In total, 1,086,499 participants attended FIFA World Cup 2026™ events in Houston. That included fans at Houston Stadium, visitors at FIFA Fan Festival™ Houston and people taking part in official celebrations.

Houston Stadium welcomed 480,186 fans across seven matches. The average attendance reached 68,598 per match.

Ticket buyers came from all 50 states and more than 200 countries. The Host Committee reported that 81% of ticket buyers traveled from outside the Houston area. International fans made up 44% of all ticket buyers.

Mexico, Canada, Germany, Brazil and Portugal ranked as the top five countries represented among ticket buyers.

Fan Festival and Fan Walks Draw Global Crowds

FIFA Fan Festival™ Houston and the Houston Dynamo Soccer Celebration drew 551,313 people. The festival featured live match broadcasts, concerts, cultural programming, sponsor activations and community events over 39 days.

Official Fan Walks also became a signature part of Houston’s tournament experience. About 55,000 supporters joined organized marches from East Downtown to Houston Stadium.

Fans representing Portugal, Uzbekistan, Sweden, Brazil, Japan, Canada and other nations filled local streets with color and music. The Netherlands supporters’ march stood out as one of the tournament’s largest.

Houston Stadium Delivers Memorable Matches

Houston Stadium hosted seven FIFA World Cup™ matches and produced 27 goals. That total tied Houston for the most goals scored in any Host City.

The matches included Germany’s 7-1 win over Curaçao, Portugal’s 1-1 draw with the Democratic Republic of Congo and Brazil’s 2-1 victory over Japan. Houston also hosted Morocco’s 3-0 win over Canada in the city’s final tournament match.

Several major moments happened in Houston. Curaçao scored its first FIFA World Cup™ goal. Cristiano Ronaldo became the first player to score in six FIFA World Cup™ tournaments. Brazil also delivered a dramatic late Round of 32 win over Japan.

Transportation, Airports and Safety Operations

Transportation data showed heavy use of public transit during the tournament. METRO recorded about 5.5 million rides from June 12 to July 8.

Across seven matchdays, METRORail carried around 500,000 riders. That marked nearly a 50% increase over normal daily ridership.

Houston’s airports also saw high travel demand. IAH and HOU welcomed 4.5 million passengers from June 12 to July 6. Federal officials processed more than 439,000 international passengers through both airports from June 12 to July 3.

Public safety and medical operations remained stable, according to the Host Committee. Law enforcement reported very few arrests across official venues. Emergency room transports also remained low compared with overall attendance.

Downtown Houston Sees Lasting Impact

Downtown Houston recorded 1.47 million visits from more than 933,000 unique visitors during the tournament period through the end of June. Pedestrian counts rose 48.1% during the tournament and 53.7% on matchdays.

Several infrastructure projects were completed before the event. They included the $17 million Main Street Promenade, Cool & Connected Corridor improvements and new public art lighting between Downtown and East Downtown.

The tournament brought global attention to Houston and supported local businesses near the festival and stadium areas. For residents, the lasting value may come from safer streets, improved public spaces and a stronger reputation for hosting major international events.

Mexico Says No Evidence Its Lettuce Started Cyclospora Outbreak

Que Onda Editorial
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Mexico Says No Evidence Its Lettuce Started Cyclospora Outbreak

Mexico’s health minister said Tuesday that officials have not found evidence that Mexican lettuce caused a U.S. cyclospora outbreak. The statement came as U.S. health agencies continue to point to shredded iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico in their investigation.

The outbreak has been linked to lettuce served at some Taco Bell locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia. U.S. officials say the investigation remains open.

Mexico Questions Lettuce Link in Cyclospora Outbreak

Mexican Health Minister David Kershenobich said there is no evidence so far that the outbreak originated in Guanajuato, where Taylor Farms de Mexico operates.

“So far, no evidence has been found to indicate that it originated there,” Kershenobich said Tuesday, according to Reuters. He added that Mexican officials are still taking precautions.

Mexico’s sanitary regulator, Cofepris, and agricultural safety agency, Senasica, are reviewing the issue. Reuters reported that the agencies are conducting preventive inspections and traceability checks.

Mexican officials have also said only three Cyclospora cases have been confirmed in Mexico. They said those cases do not indicate a local outbreak.

FDA Still Warns Against Recalled Lettuce

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration says its traceback investigation still points to shredded iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico. The FDA said the lettuce was used at Taco Bell locations where people ate before becoming sick.

However, the case has become more complicated. The FDA first reported a positive Cyclospora test from a Taylor Farms lettuce sample. The agency later said that result was a false positive after a review by laboratory experts.

As of July 19, the FDA said there were no confirmed positive product test results for Cyclospora. Even so, the agency said its investigation remains active.

Taylor Farms de Mexico recalled all iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico on July 17. The recall includes products sent to restaurants, food service customers and some retail stores.

Illnesses Reported in Five States

The CDC says more than 1,644 people have been infected in the five-state outbreak. The agency reported 94 hospitalizations and no deaths.

Symptoms of cyclosporiasis can include watery diarrhea, fatigue, loss of appetite, stomach cramps, bloating and nausea. Symptoms often begin about one week after infection.

The CDC says people may need to ask specifically for Cyclospora testing. Routine stool tests do not always check for the parasite.

Health officials advise consumers not to eat recalled iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico. The CDC also recommends throwing away recalled lettuce or returning it to the store.

Texas Products Included in Recall

No Texas cases are included in the five-state outbreak count listed by the CDC and FDA. However, the FDA says recalled products were distributed to Texas and several other states.

Recalled Marketside-brand iceberg products were sold at select Walmart stores in Texas and 14 other states. Other recalled products went to food service customers in 27 states.

Consumers, restaurants and retailers should check product lists from the FDA recall notice. Any surfaces or containers that touched recalled lettuce should be washed and sanitized.

The FDA says Taco Bell stopped using lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico as of July 17.

What Consumers Should Know

Cyclospora spreads through food or water contaminated with the parasite. Washing produce can reduce risk, but it may not remove all contamination.

The CDC says cooking produce to at least 158 degrees can kill the parasite. Anyone with prolonged diarrhea or related symptoms should contact a health care provider.

For now, Mexico says there is no proof its lettuce caused the outbreak. U.S. agencies say the recalled lettuce remains the focus of the investigation. Consumers should follow recall guidance while officials review the source and scope of the contamination.

USMCA Trade Talks Resume as U.S. and Mexico Meet Amid New Canada Tariffs

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USMCA Trade Talks Resume as U.S. and Mexico Meet Amid New Canada Tariffs

USMCA trade talks resumed this week as U.S. and Mexican officials opened a new round of discussions in Mexico City. The meetings come as President Donald Trump escalates pressure on Canada with new 50% tariffs on many Canadian goods.

The talks mark the first annual review process for the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. The trade pact took effect in 2020 and replaced NAFTA.

USMCA Trade Talks Begin New Review Phase

Technical teams from the United States and Mexico began work Tuesday, according to El País. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum is expected to meet Wednesday with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer.

The discussions are expected to cover rules of origin, labor issues, economic security and key industries. Those sectors include autos, steel, aluminum, agriculture and electronic payment services.

The U.S. Trade Representative’s office said earlier this year that the talks would focus on making sure the agreement benefits U.S. manufacturers, farmers, ranchers, workers and service providers.

Mexico has a major stake in the outcome. More than 80% of Mexican exports go to the U.S. market, according to El País. The country also remains one of the United States’ largest trade partners.

Mexico Pushes to Protect Tariff Advantages

Mexico wants to preserve its preferential access to the U.S. market. That access has helped support factories, cross-border supply chains and export growth.

Economy Secretary Marcelo Ebrard has said Mexico’s priority is keeping its tariff advantage over other countries. Mexican officials also want the review to bring certainty for businesses and investors.

The U.S. has raised concerns about its trade deficit with Mexico. Greer has said Washington wants any agreement with Mexico to address that imbalance.

Autos remain one of the most sensitive issues. Washington has pushed for more U.S. content in vehicles assembled in North America. Mexico also faces sector-specific U.S. tariffs on products including steel, aluminum, copper, autos and tomatoes.

Trump Targets Canada With 50% Tariffs

The Mexico talks began just after Trump announced new 50% tariffs on most Canadian goods. The Associated Press reported that the tariffs were imposed under Section 338 of the 1930 Tariff Act.

The White House said the tariffs will take effect in 30 days, leaving room for negotiations. They exclude energy products, potash, fish and critical minerals.

However, the tariffs would affect some goods that had previously received protection under USMCA rules. Trump said Canada discriminates against U.S. autos, alcohol and dairy products.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said Canada remains ready to negotiate. He also said the trade dispute has raised costs for families, especially in the United States.

North American Trade Faces Uncertainty

The U.S. decision not to renew USMCA for another 16 years has added uncertainty across North America. Instead, the agreement now faces annual reviews through 2036 unless the countries reach a longer-term solution.

For Texas businesses, the talks matter. Mexico is a key trading partner for the state, especially in energy, manufacturing, agriculture and logistics.

The outcome could affect prices, jobs and supply chains across the region. Border communities may feel those changes first because so much trade moves through ports of entry every day.

For now, Mexico is trying to keep talks moving while avoiding the sharper conflict now unfolding between Washington and Ottawa. The next steps will show whether North America’s trade partners can preserve stability under growing tariff pressure.

Kaylee Hottle, Godzilla Actor and Texas School for the Deaf Student, Dies at 18

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Kaylee Hottle, Godzilla Actor and Texas School for the Deaf Student, Dies at 18

Kaylee Hottle, the young actor known for playing Jia in the “Godzilla” film franchise, died Tuesday after a car crash in Maryland. She was 18.

The Associated Press reported that Hottle was a passenger in a single-vehicle crash in Ijamsville, Maryland. Authorities said the crash remains under investigation.

Kaylee Hottle Car Crash Remains Under Investigation

The crash happened early Tuesday in Frederick County, Maryland, according to reports citing local authorities. Hottle was one of two passengers in the vehicle.

The vehicle left the road and struck a culvert, the Associated Press reported. Investigators believe excessive speed may have contributed to the crash.

Hottle was taken to a trauma center, where she died. The 19-year-old driver suffered injuries that were not considered life-threatening. Another passenger declined medical treatment.

Her father, Joshua Hottle, confirmed her death in a Facebook video using American Sign Language, according to multiple reports. The family has asked for privacy as the community mourns.

A Breakout Role in the Godzilla Franchise

Hottle became widely known for her role as Jia in “Godzilla vs. Kong,” released in 2021. She later returned for “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire” in 2024.

Her character, Jia, was a deaf girl who communicated with Kong through sign language. The role brought wider attention to deaf representation in major studio films.

Hottle was deaf and came from a deaf family. Her work stood out because it reflected authentic casting and communication on screen.

She also appeared in an episode of “Magnum P.I.” Her performance in “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire” earned a Saturn Award nomination for Best Younger Performer in a Film.

Texas School for the Deaf Community Mourns

Hottle attended the Texas School for the Deaf in Austin. The school previously celebrated her role in “Godzilla vs. Kong” when the film premiered in 2021.

After her death, the school community shared grief over the loss of a student, actor and friend. Local Texas outlets reported that the school offered support to students and staff following the news.

Her story carried special meaning in Texas, where she grew up and studied. For many in the deaf and Latino communities, her rise showed how inclusive casting can open doors in major entertainment.

Hottle’s role also helped introduce more audiences to American Sign Language. Her presence in a blockbuster franchise made deaf communication central to the story, not a side detail.

Remembering a Young Actor’s Impact

Hottle’s death drew reactions from fans, classmates and entertainment outlets across the country. Many remembered her as a promising performer with a growing career.

Her work helped expand visibility for deaf actors in Hollywood. It also showed the importance of allowing deaf characters to be played by deaf performers.

The crash investigation continues in Maryland. Further details may be released by authorities as the case develops.

Hottle leaves behind a legacy shaped by talent, representation and community pride. Her impact will continue through the students, fans and families who saw themselves reflected in her work.

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