Amarillo, Texas – Travel across the Texas Panhandle could become hazardous by midday Tuesday as wind gusts approach 60 mph, creating blowing dust and dangerous wildfire conditions.
According to the National Weather Service in Amarillo, Tuesday will bring the strongest winds of the week, with a 70 to 100 percent chance of gusts exceeding 50 mph near Boise City and Dalhart. Much of the central and western Panhandle, including Amarillo, Dumas, Borger and Guymon, faces a 40 to 70 percent chance of 50 mph gusts. There is also a 40 to 70 percent chance of gusts topping 60 mph across parts of the northwest Panhandle.
These southwest-to-west winds could make travel difficult for high-profile vehicles along I-40 and U.S. 287. Blowing dust may reduce visibility quickly, especially in open rural areas, and could briefly create near-whiteout conditions on north-south roadways.
The region will remain very dry through the workweek, following near-record heat Monday with highs in the upper 70s to mid-80s. Combined with strong winds, this will create elevated to critical fire weather conditions Tuesday, with moderate fire concerns lingering Wednesday.
Residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning, secure loose outdoor items and properly discard cigarettes. Fire officials warn that one spark could spread rapidly in these conditions. Wind impacts are expected to peak Tuesday afternoon before gradually easing late Tuesday night.
