Latest News in Austin, TX

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Storm damages 70-year-old baseball fields

Volunteers are working to restore the Delwood baseball complex in Austin after storms caused significant damage, leaving only three of five fields playable. The Delwood board seeks to raise $50,000 for repairs, emphasizing the complex's importance to local youth baseball.

Hazed and Confused Saharan Dust Plume Blankets Austin, Impacts Air Quality

A plume of Saharan dust has reached Central Texas, impacting air quality and visibility across Austin. Officials advise those with respiratory issues to remain indoors as the dust combines with smoke from wildfires, worsening health risks. Despite the negative effects, the dust also plays a role in soil nourishment and hurricane prevention.

Zilker Brewing celebrates 10 years

Zilker Brewing, located in Austin, Texas, reports a 5-7% increase in sales and production over the past two years, despite a general decline in the craft beer industry. The brewery's focus on high-quality products and community engagement has helped it thrive where many others have struggled.

Austin launches final year of program to combat toxic algae

Austin will launch the final year of its pilot program on Monday to combat toxic blue-green algae in Lady Bird Lake. The program, which costs $300,000 annually, aims to lower phosphorus levels that fuel algae growth, following a troubling history of toxic blooms since 2019.

Austin apartment permits have plummeted since the pandemic

Multifamily housing permits in Austin have fallen below pandemic levels, with developers receiving an average of 64.5 permits per 10,000 people from April 2024 to March 2025. This decline, attributed to high borrowing costs and flattening rents, risks reigniting rent inflation in the city. Mayor Kirk Watson plans to address this issue by proposing a resolution to discuss incentives for building affordable housing.

International students in Texas left in limbo

Texas hosts about 8% of international students in the U.S., ranking third behind California and New York. The Trump administration's actions, including halting student visa interviews and revoking visas for Chinese students, raise concerns about the future of these students amid political tensions. The University of Texas, with a significant international student population, faces uncertainty as federal policies shift.

More Severe Storms Forecast for Central Texas After Last Weeks Destructive Weather

Severe storms are expected to hit Central Texas late Tuesday night into Wednesday morning, with the National Weather Service issuing a warning. The region has already suffered from severe weather, resulting in one death and widespread power outages affecting over 72,000 customers. Residents are advised to remain vigilant as the forecast predicts large hail, damaging winds, and significant rainfall.

Austin Middle School Student Dies After Medical Emergency During Field Trip

An eighth-grade student at Covington Middle School, Vadir Gonzalez-Arias, died on May 29 after a medical emergency during a field trip. Principal Cedric Maddox expressed deep sorrow and announced counseling services to support grieving students and families.

Abbott faces political heat over THC crackdown

Texas Governor Greg Abbott faces pressure regarding legislation that could ban THC products, threatening a multibillion-dollar industry. While some lawmakers advocate for stricter regulations to protect children, Abbott receives significant pushback from constituents and veterans urging him to veto the bill. The governor has yet to reveal his decision on Senate Bill 3.

Police Find No Evidence of Hate Crime in Jonathan Josss Murder, Despite Husbands Allegation

Authorities in San Antonio found no evidence to support claims that actor Jonathan Joss's murder was a hate crime, despite allegations from his husband, Tristan Kern de Gonzales. Joss was shot multiple times near his former home, and police have arrested 56-year-old Sigfredo Alvarez Ceja on murder charges. The investigation continues as Gonzales recounts a confrontation with the shooter that included homophobic slurs.

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