Amarillo, Texas – Temperatures will climb into the upper 80s and low 90s by Thursday afternoon, bringing a summerlike stretch of heat across the Texas and Oklahoma Panhandles before a late-period shift toward storms.
According to the National Weather Service and NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, the Panhandles are in a 70 to 80 percent probability zone for above-normal temperatures from April 16 through April 20. A broad heat dome over the Southern Plains will dominate early, allowing temperatures to steadily rise through the end of the workweek.
In Amarillo and across Potter and Randall counties, highs are expected to reach 88 to 92°F between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., with overnight lows holding in the mid to upper 60s. Across the Oklahoma Panhandle, including Guymon and Boise City, similar conditions will develop with strong sunshine and dry air accelerating the drying of grasses.
Along U.S. 287 and U.S. 54, increasing southwest winds could gust between 25 and 35 mph at times, raising wildfire risk and creating blowing dust concerns in open areas. Dalhart and Dumas will see similar heat with elevated fire risks during peak afternoon hours.
The precipitation outlook shows near-normal early conditions transitioning to a 40 to 50 percent chance of above-normal rainfall between April 18 and April 22. Thunderstorm chances will increase late in the period, with the potential for gusty winds and brief heavy rain.
Residents should avoid outdoor burning, secure loose outdoor items, and stay hydrated during peak heat. Drivers should be alert for crosswinds and reduced visibility in dust-prone areas.
The most consistent heat is expected through April 18, followed by increasing storm chances into early next week. Additional advisories are likely as the pattern shifts from dry heat to a more active weather setup.
