Amarillo, TX – Residents across the western Texas Panhandle should prepare for another round of thunderstorms late Tuesday evening into early Wednesday, with heavy rainfall posing the greatest concern.
According to the National Weather Service in Amarillo, storms struggled to develop during the afternoon, but weather conditions are expected to become more favorable later tonight. Forecasters say thunderstorms may move into the region from eastern New Mexico as early as 7 p.m. Tuesday, with activity continuing past midnight.
The primary hazard is heavy rainfall, with storms capable of producing 2 to 4 inches of rain per hour. Because the storms are expected to move slowly, localized flash flooding could develop, especially in low-lying and poor drainage areas.
The National Weather Service said the greatest threat for flash flooding is expected between 7 p.m. Tuesday and 3 a.m. Wednesday. Current forecasts indicate at least a 15% chance of flash flooding across portions of the western Panhandle, including areas near Boise City, while a lower threat extends farther east.
In addition to heavy rain, thunderstorms may also produce frequent lightning and strong wind gusts. While widespread severe weather is not anticipated, forecasters said isolated damaging wind gusts cannot be ruled out.
Residents are encouraged to monitor the latest forecasts, avoid driving through flooded roadways, and have multiple ways to receive weather warnings overnight.
The weather pattern is expected to gradually improve after sunrise Wednesday as storm chances decrease across much of the region.
