Amarillo, Texas – Thunderstorms are possible in the western Texas Panhandle this afternoon, with the primary threats being lightning, gusty winds, and localized flooding in areas where rain has already saturated the ground. While the chances of storms aren’t high, any showers that develop could quickly turn intense.
According to the National Weather Service in Amarillo, storms are most likely to occur between 1 p.m. and 7 p.m., with a potential end time of 9 p.m. Gusty winds, possibly reaching 30-40 mph, are a significant hazard with any thunderstorm that forms. In addition, saturated soils from previous rainfall could lead to localized flooding if heavy rain falls quickly in already wet areas.
Communities in the western part of the Panhandle, including Dalhart, Hereford, and Amarillo, should stay alert. Motorists are urged to use caution, especially on rural roads, which could become slippery and prone to ponding water during thunderstorms…