Amarillo, TX – Texas Panhandle residents can expect beautiful skies hiding dangerous conditions Friday as gusty winds and unseasonably warm temperatures heighten fire risks.
According to the National Weather Service in Amarillo, dry conditions combined with highs near 85°F and wind gusts topping 25 mph could fuel rapid fire growth, especially near open fields and highways like I-40. The greatest threat spans Friday into Saturday night, prompting officials to urge caution with outdoor burning, equipment use, and cigarette disposal.
A low chance of isolated thunderstorms remains in the southern Panhandle late Thursday, but widespread rain is not expected. Instead, breezy, warm air continues dominating the region into the weekend. Friday will bring mostly sunny skies, strong southwest winds, and elevated fire danger across rural and urban zones alike.
Key Safety Tips:
- Avoid burning debris or using outdoor grills in open areas.
- Secure trailers to prevent sparks near roadways.
- Stay alert to local emergency alerts or evacuation notices, especially in grassland zones.
Looking ahead, Saturday will remain mostly sunny with highs in the low 80s and sustained winds near 15 mph. By Sunday, cooler air moves in, with highs dipping to 73°F under mostly sunny skies. Nights will cool off, with lows dropping to the 30s.
Next week opens with continued dry, sunny weather and highs in the upper 70s to mid-80s. Fire concerns may persist into Tuesday if no rainfall arrives.
