Amarillo, TX – Increasing confidence in accumulating snow and extreme cold is raising travel and safety concerns across the Amarillo area heading into the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Amarillo, impactful winter weather is expected from Friday through Saturday night, with dangerous cold lingering into Sunday morning. Forecast guidance shows a medium to high probability of at least 5 inches of snow, particularly across the eastern and southern Texas Panhandle, including Amarillo.
Snow is expected to begin Friday morning, intensifying through Friday evening and overnight into Saturday, when travel impacts are most likely. The National Weather Service warns of slick roadways and periods of low visibility, especially during heavier snowfall.
Following the snow, dangerously cold Arctic air will overspread the region. Wind chills are expected to drop to 10 to 20 degrees below zero Saturday morning, with Sunday morning wind chills between 5 and 15 below zero. Some locations may experience 24 to 36 consecutive hours with wind chills below zero.
Road conditions may worsen overnight as temperatures plunge, increasing the risk of refreeze on Interstate 40, U.S. Highway 287, and U.S. Highway 87, along with city streets and bridges.
The National Weather Service urged residents to limit travel during peak snowfall, prepare vehicles for winter conditions, and take precautions against frostbite. Commuters, weekend workers, and travelers should plan for delays and monitor forecast updates closely, as some details may still change.
