Amarillo and the Texas Panhandle will experience cooler temperatures today compared to the past several days, but conditions will remain warmer than normal for mid-December, according to the National Weather Service in Amarillo. Despite the modest cool-down, dry air and breezy north winds will combine to create elevated fire weather conditions, especially across the northeast combined Panhandles and parts of the eastern Texas Panhandle.
North to northeasterly winds are expected to increase through the morning, with gusts commonly reaching 35 to 40 mph. Some locations, particularly across the northeastern Panhandles, could see isolated wind gusts exceeding 45 mph, with a 10 to 60 percent chance of those stronger gusts depending on location. The strongest winds are expected between 10 AM and 3 PM, when fire danger will be at its highest.
Afternoon temperatures will range from the low to mid-50s for most communities, which is still several degrees above average for this time of year. Amarillo’s average high for mid-December is near 51 degrees, while forecast highs today will reach the mid-50s, with Palo Duro Canyon climbing to around 60 degrees.
Although temperatures are relatively mild, very low humidity levels, combined with strong winds, mean any fire that starts could spread quickly. Residents are strongly encouraged to avoid outdoor burning, properly dispose of cigarettes, and secure loose items that could be blown around by gusty winds.
Fire weather conditions are expected to remain a concern through today, and while temperatures feel more comfortable, the dry and windy pattern demands caution. Officials urge everyone across Amarillo and the Texas Panhandle to stay alert, practice fire safety, and monitor local forecasts for any updates as conditions evolve.
