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Austin Faces Widespread Outages, 1 Dead After Destructive Storm
A severe hailstorm in Austin has left over 16,000 residents without power, following significant damage and at least one fatality. Emergency crews, supported by more than 200 teams from neighboring areas, are working to restore electricity after the storm caused extensive damage to power infrastructure.
Texas Legislature passes public school funding
The Texas Legislature passed a public school funding bill on May 30, 2025, aimed at enhancing educational resources across the state. This legislation is expected to address funding disparities and improve educational outcomes for students.
Thousands remain without power after storm
Storms in Austin left thousands without power after heavy rainfall caused significant disruptions. Some areas reported 2 to 3 inches of rain within just 30 minutes, leading to widespread outages. Utility crews are working to restore service.
Airbnb branches into exclusive Austin experiences
Airbnb expands its offerings in Austin by introducing exclusive experiences, including activities like pickleball lessons and historic tours. This move aims to enhance guest engagement and attract more visitors to the city.
Why we're sinking
Austin faces significant subsidence issues that threaten infrastructure, including roads and buildings. This phenomenon exacerbates flooding risks in low-lying areas, prompting concerns among residents and city planners.
Politics - Axios Austin
Axios Austin covers local political developments, including legislation impacting the abortion pill in Texas and federal funding for Austin-area school districts. The content provides insights into the Texas legislature's activities and their implications for residents.
Bill targeting abortion pills misses key deadline
A Texas bill aimed at restricting medication abortion has missed a crucial legislative deadline, hindering efforts by state Republicans to limit access to abortion pills. The failure to advance the bill marks a setback for anti-abortion advocates in Texas.
47 Injured After Car Plows Into Crowd at Liverpool FC Title Parade
A car crashed into a crowd of Liverpool FC fans during the team's Premier League title parade, injuring 47 individuals. The incident occurred as thousands gathered to celebrate the team's victory, turning a joyous occasion into a tragic event. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash.
U.S. Summers Are Hotter and LongerAnd Austin Is No Exception
A recent analysis reveals that 97% of U.S. cities have seen temperature increases since 1970, with Austin experiencing 50 additional days of excessive heat. Record carbon pollution levels are driving these trends, contributing to a projected 2025 as one of the hottest years on record. Heat-related illnesses and deteriorating air quality pose increasing risks to public health.
Austin City Council Moves to Ban New Vape Shops Near Schools and Daycares
The Austin City Council plans to restrict new vape shops within 1,000 feet of schools and childcare facilities. This initiative aims to reduce youth access to e-cigarettes and mitigate health risks associated with nicotine. A draft ordinance is expected to be presented on September 11, 2025.
Every School on the Table Austin ISD to Decide Closures by Fall 2025
Austin ISD plans to close and consolidate schools due to budget deficits and declining enrollment, with a decision expected by fall 2025. The district faces approximately 25,000 vacant seats and aims to enhance transparency through community feedback. Specific schools for closure could be identified by 2025, with changes implemented as soon as the 2026–27 school year.
Paramount Theatre's summer film series returns
Paramount Theatre's summer film series returns with classic favorites like "Miss Congeniality" and "Clueless." The series is expected to attract movie enthusiasts looking for nostalgic entertainment in Austin.
Bank of America golf program helps Austin kids
Bank of America launched the "Golf with Us" program, making golf accessible to kids in Austin for $5 or less per round. The initiative partners with Youth on Course to provide free lessons and memberships to children ages 6-18, aiming to teach valuable life skills through the sport.
Paramount Theatre's Summer Film Series Returns to Austin
Axios Austin reports on the return of Paramount Theatre's summer film series, which showcases classic movies starting June 1. The series, a staple of Austin's cultural scene, aims to offer residents and visitors a nostalgic cinematic experience.
'Fire weather' is happening more often
Hot, dry, and windy weather linked to climate change is increasing wildfire risks across the U.S., with 'fire weather' days rising significantly since 1973. An analysis by Climate Central found that some areas, like parts of Texas, now experience two additional months of fire weather annually. This shift strains firefighting resources and raises insurance concerns for property owners.
Hot Luck starts Thursday
Austin's Hot Luck festival, featuring acclaimed chefs recognized by the James Beard Foundation, kicks off Thursday. The event includes a street food market on Friday, an outdoor cookout on Saturday, and a Sunday brunch, with individual event tickets costing $195. Proceeds will support the Southern Smoke Foundation, aiding food industry workers in need.
FAA staffing issues lead to Austin airport delays
More than 100 flights were delayed at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport due to Federal Aviation Administration staffing issues. The delays, occurring just before a busy travel weekend, highlight ongoing concerns about aviation safety and the FAA's workforce challenges.
Texas Moves Closer to Banning Social Media for Minors With HB 186
Texas lawmakers advance House Bill 186, which would prohibit minors from accessing social media, having passed the House and awaiting Senate review. The bill includes age verification and allows parents to request account deletions. Proponents argue it addresses mental health concerns linked to social media use among youth.
Very best day in Austin with Michelle Amezquita-Navarro
Travis Heights Elementary in Austin ISD received top marks for academic performance. Principal Michelle Amezquita-Navarro, who has served the school for seven years, emphasizes the diverse community, with over 15 languages spoken and a student body that is 43.7% Hispanic. The school's reading and math proficiency rates stand at 76% and 66%, respectively.
Austin apartments are getting smaller
New apartments in Austin shrank 6% in size from 2015 to 2024, averaging 872 square feet, according to RentCafe. This trend reflects a broader nationwide decrease in apartment sizes among the 100 largest U.S. cities. Developers are increasingly prioritizing smaller floor plans, impacting renters already facing high prices.
Inside Texas' push for religion in public schools
Texas lawmakers are advancing proposals to incorporate religious elements into public education, including posting the Ten Commandments in classrooms and allowing school prayer. Supporters argue these measures reinforce moral values, while opponents emphasize the importance of maintaining the separation of church and state. Governor Greg Abbott recently signed a $1 billion voucher program that could benefit religious schools.
Austin Traffic Volume Up After Return-to-Office OrderBut Speeds Stay the Same
Traffic on Austin’s highways rose by 5% after state employees returned to the office full-time on March 31. Despite the increase in vehicles, average travel speeds on major routes remained stable, with morning speeds rising from 18 to 28 mph.
After Vouchers Win, Bill to Boost Public School Funding Finally Moves Forward
Texas lawmakers will examine House Bill 2, a $7 billion public school funding package, after Governor Greg Abbott signed a law favoring private school vouchers. The bill aims to increase per-student funding, raise teacher salaries, and improve special education, amidst rising concerns about public school resources. Supporters hope it will pass despite skepticism about its effectiveness.
Austin gets leap-frogged by Fort Worth
Fort Worth has overtaken Austin as Texas's fourth-largest city, reflecting Austin's stagnating growth rate of just 0.4% between 2023 and 2024. This slowdown stems from affordability issues and a post-pandemic tech downturn, impacting both retention and attraction of residents.