Amarillo, TX – Texans along I-40 should brace for a summer weather alert as thunderstorms threaten Amarillo and surrounding areas beginning late Friday. The heat will peak at 93°F Friday afternoon, but the real concern begins Saturday, with repeated chances for showers and storms through early next week.
According to the National Weather Service in Amarillo, a 50% chance of thunderstorms develops Friday night, continuing into Saturday afternoon and evening. Storms could bring frequent lightning, brief heavy rain, and gusty winds — particularly hazardous for drivers on U.S. Highway 287 and Interstate 40 between Vega and Panhandle.
Localized downpours could reduce visibility and pool on roads, especially in low-lying areas. Residents are urged to avoid flooded crossings, secure outdoor items, and have flashlights and chargers ready in case of power outages. Rain chances remain elevated through Sunday night, with a 30% chance of storms returning Monday night through Wednesday.
While Sunday could bring a brief break in coverage, even a 20% chance of afternoon thunderstorms keeps outdoor plans at risk. Temperatures will hover in the mid-80s through the weekend, slightly cooler than Friday but still warm and humid.
More rain is likely Tuesday and Wednesday, so plan ahead if you have travel or outdoor work scheduled early next week. The National Weather Service continues to monitor for potential severe storm development — additional alerts could be issued.
🌤️ Amarillo 5-Day Forecast (July 11–15):
- Friday: Sunny, high near 93°F. Southwest winds around 10 mph.
- Saturday: Scattered showers/storms, mainly after 10 a.m. High 84°F. Winds shift east, 10 mph.
- Sunday: Mostly cloudy, slight chance of storms after 1 p.m. High near 85°F.
- Monday: Partly sunny, 20% chance of storms late. High 87°F.
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, 20–30% chance of thunderstorms through night. High near 88°F.
⚠️ Summer Safety Tip: Keep an eye on skies before heading outdoors. Sudden storms can form quickly — especially during peak heating hours.
