Amarillo, Texas – A narrow window for severe thunderstorms could develop across the eastern Texas Panhandle this afternoon, with any storm capable of producing 65 mph wind gusts and hail large enough to damage vehicles between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service in Amarillo, storm development is uncertain, with only a 10–20% chance of initiation along a dry line separating dry air to the west and more humid air to the east. If storms form, they could quickly intensify, especially east of Amarillo.
Communities including Borger, Pampa, Canadian, Wheeler, and Perryton sit in the primary zone for potential development. Storms could begin as early as 1 p.m., but the most likely timing centers on late afternoon into the evening commute. Travel along Interstate 40, U.S. 83, and Highway 60 may be briefly impacted by sudden downpours, hail up to 1.25 inches, and wind gusts strong enough to knock debris into roadways.
Tornado risk remains very low, but not zero. The greater concern is isolated pockets of damaging hail and wind in any storm that forms. Western areas, including Dalhart and Hereford, are more likely to remain dry but face elevated fire weather conditions due to gusty winds and low humidity.
Storm chances end by late evening, with no overnight severe threat expected. Additional updates may be issued by mid-afternoon if storms begin to develop.
