Texas – A crisp, dry breeze sweeps across the High Plains before sunrise, stirring dust along open fields and leaving a chilly edge in the air. Amarillo wakes to clearing skies and a brightening horizon, but the atmosphere signals changes ahead as Thanksgiving travel begins across the Texas Panhandle. Drivers should prepare for quick shifts in visibility from crosswinds on I-40 and lighter east–west routes.
According to the National Weather Service in Amarillo, a warm ridge holds for now and keeps temperatures well above average into midweek. Sunshine dominates today, and the warmest stretch arrives Wednesday, yet forecasters stress that a strengthening trough gathers to the west. That system increases cloud cover late Wednesday and boosts the chance of showers Thursday. Rain amounts stay on the lighter side, but stronger gusts could develop as the front approaches, creating pockets of reduced visibility for early departures and freight traffic.
According to meteorologists, the bigger story may be the late-week cooldown. Cooler, drier air presses in behind the front Thursday night and Friday, delivering a sharp shift from the mid-70s warmth. While the front lacks the cold snap intensity seen farther north this November, models hint at an early winter tease this weekend with brisk winds and a slight chance of a light shower east of the city. Snow remains unlikely, but the pattern favors more dramatic temperature swings as Thanksgiving week develops.
Residents planning holiday trips should monitor timing closely. Stronger winds often impact high-profile vehicles, especially along open stretches of I-40. Keep gas tanks topped off, secure outdoor decorations, and expect cooler, windier conditions by Thursday evening.
Five-Day Forecast for Amarillo, TX:
Tue: 71/46 – Mostly sunny; breezy at times.
Wed: 74/47 – Mostly sunny; warm for November.
Thu: 62/40 – Showers possible; cooler air pushing in.
Fri: 59/34 – Mostly sunny; brisk winds.
Sat: 63/38 – Sunny; early winter feel in the morning.
