Amarillo, Texas – Residents across the Texas Panhandle have hours to prepare as a cold front sweeping through this morning sets the stage for severe thunderstorms by this evening, with the greatest risk arriving after sunset.
According to the National Weather Service in Amarillo, the cold front will move south between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m., shifting winds from southwest to north and increasing gusts up to 35 mph behind the front. Storm development is expected to begin as early as 5 p.m., with the most intense activity likely between 6 p.m. and 11 p.m.
The strongest storms could produce wind gusts up to 65 mph and hail up to 1.5 inches in diameter. Areas along and east of Amarillo, including Pampa, Canadian, and Wheeler, face a higher risk for severe weather, while western locations like Dalhart and Hereford may see lower coverage.
Travel along I-40 and U.S. 287 could become hazardous during peak storm activity, with sudden downpours, lightning, and strong crosswinds. Blowing dust may also develop ahead of storms as winds shift with the front.
Residents should secure outdoor items, review severe weather safety plans, and ensure alerts are enabled on mobile devices. Storms are expected to weaken late tonight, but additional warnings may be issued as conditions rapidly evolve.
