Amarillo, TX – While only light showers are possible across parts of the Texas Panhandle this afternoon, forecasters warn a much more significant weather concern is developing for the upcoming workweek: strong winds and critical fire danger.
According to the National Weather Service in Amarillo, isolated sprinkles or light rain showers may occur through 7 p.m. Saturday, mainly across the eastern Panhandle. Rainfall amounts are expected to remain light — generally just a few hundredths of an inch.
Attention then turns to a large weather system expected to move slowly across the Mountain West early next week. That system is forecast to produce a prolonged period of strong and gusty winds across the Texas and Oklahoma Panhandles.
Wind gusts could exceed 50 mph Tuesday, with elevated to critical fire weather conditions likely across much of the region, especially Tuesday and Wednesday. Dry air combined with strong winds could create conditions favorable for wildfire starts and rapid fire spread.
Officials urge residents to avoid outdoor burning, properly discard cigarettes, keep vehicles off dry grass, and follow any local burn bans. Even small sparks can quickly become dangerous under high-wind conditions.
Residents should secure loose outdoor items ahead of the windy period and stay updated on potential fire weather watches or warnings.
