SUMMARY: Illegal border crossings along the Southwest U.S. border are hitting their lowest levels in decades, prompting the U.S. Coast Guard to increase its resources in the area. In the Rio Grande Valley, Coast Guard patrols aim to assist border patrol efforts in detecting and deterring illegal migration and drug smuggling. Captain Tory Berau noted that, despite lower crossing rates—which dropped to an average of 360 per day in February from nearly 3,000 last year—smuggling remains a concern. Enhanced operations along the Gulf Coast and increased patrols have been implemented to maintain U.S. territorial integrity.

Illegal crossings along the Southwest border are dropping to the lowest levels in decades. Now the U.S. Coast Guard is increasing its resources alongside Border Patrol. FOX’s Sarah Alegre goes along for a closer look.

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SUMMARY: The Trump Administration has halted legal aid for unaccompanied migrant children, affecting nearly 26,000 seeking asylum and pushing minors to self-represent in court. Meanwhile, President Trump is facing backlash over potential military layoffs, as a federal judge reviews the constitutionality of his transgender military ban. In international news, the US and Russia held talks on the Ukraine war without Ukrainian representation. Pope Francis has been diagnosed with pneumonia but remains in good spirits. Additionally, Chase Bank will block Zelle payments via social media to combat fraud, Wendy’s will introduce AI to drive-thrus, and Coca-Cola is launching a health-focused prebiotic soda.

The 9@9 features some of the biggest stories making headlines at home, around the country and across the globe. Here’s what’s trending.

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SUMMARY: North America is experiencing a significant cold front, with temperatures reaching as low as 18°F in Bismarck and 20°F in Dallas, while parts of Austin are below freezing. The cold wave is expected to cause freezing conditions inland and along the coast by Thursday morning, prompting weather alerts for residents to protect vulnerable items. Houston is currently at 55°F, but colder air is moving in. Wind chill factors will make temperatures feel even colder, with warnings for strong winds. The forecast includes highs of only 40°F and a brief recovery in temperatures over the following days.

Wednesday starts with wind and cold air with morning lows just above freezing in downtown.

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