Amarillo, TX — A surge of spring heat is raising fire concerns across the Texas Panhandle as Monday kicks off with elevated fire weather conditions and near-record highs approaching 80°F.
According to the National Weather Service in Amarillo, dry and breezy weather on Monday will pose a heightened fire danger, particularly across the eastern Panhandles. Emergency officials and fire managers are urged to stay alert as conditions may support rapid fire spread. Winds will shift from the southwest to the north throughout the day, with gusts reaching 25 mph.
After Monday’s fire risk, the rest of the week brings warm and mostly sunny skies for Amarillo, with highs climbing into the low 80s by Tuesday and staying elevated through Thursday. A slight chance of thunderstorms enters the forecast by Wednesday night, with a 20 percent chance of rain late in the evening.
No major storm systems are forecast early in the week, but officials warn that even mild spring conditions can spark wildfires due to low humidity and dry fuels.
Residents traveling U.S. Highway 287 and I-40 should use caution and report any signs of smoke or fire. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged. Keep vehicles off dry grass and avoid open flames outdoors.
Looking ahead, Thursday and Friday remain mild with mostly sunny skies and temperatures peaking in the upper 70s to low 80s. Spring is here, but so is fire season—stay weather-aware.