Amarillo, Texas – A split weather pattern is setting up across the Texas Panhandle this week, bringing elevated fire danger to the west while increasing storm chances to the east through Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in Amarillo, central and western portions of the Panhandle will remain mostly dry and warm, creating conditions favorable for rapid fire spread. Areas including Dalhart, Dumas, and Hereford face the greatest fire risk, especially during the afternoon when winds and low humidity peak.
Farther east, including Pampa, Canadian, and Wheeler, daily chances for showers and thunderstorms will continue through Friday, with probabilities ranging from 20 to 50 percent. Some storms could turn strong to severe, producing large hail, damaging wind gusts, and frequent lightning.
The exact location of storms may shift each day, increasing uncertainty for specific communities but maintaining a consistent risk across the eastern Panhandle.
Residents in fire-prone areas should avoid outdoor burning and secure equipment that could spark fires, while those in storm-prone areas should monitor alerts and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions.
This pattern is expected to persist through Friday, with updates likely as storm chances and fire weather conditions evolve.
