Texas wakes under a crisp, blue haze this morning as a stronger push of arctic air edges closer to the Panhandle. Frost clings to windshields, and the air bites sharply against exposed skin — a clear signal that Saturday night will be the coldest stretch of December so far.
According to the National Weather Service, temperatures across the Amarillo region will plunge into the teens and lower 20s Saturday night. The deeper concern comes from the wind chill. Single digits are likely across parts of the northern Panhandle, with Amarillo itself projected to feel like 10–12° at the coldest point. Drivers, walkers, and late-shift workers should limit time outdoors and dress in layered, insulated clothing.
Wind chills this low may create travel risks, especially for those using I-40, US-87, or US-287 early Sunday. The cold will not produce snow, but the sharp temperature fall may stiffen tires, weaken batteries, and increase the chance of black ice on shaded bridges where moisture lingers. Keep pets indoors and shield outdoor plumbing; after all, this type of December cold can crack exposed pipes.
By Sunday afternoon, sunshine returns and temperatures climb into the upper 40s. Even so, the air stays brisk and dry. This early-season cold snap does not last long — models show a steady warm-up through midweek, with highs back into the 50s and low 60s.
