Amarillo, Texas – Damaging winds and quarter-size hail could strike the Texas Panhandle Thursday evening, with the highest risk from 5 to 10 p.m. for cities including Amarillo, Dumas, Stratford, and Dalhart. Emergency management officials are urging residents to stay weather-aware as storms approach from the northwest and intensify after sunset.
According to the National Weather Service in Amarillo, wind gusts up to 70 mph and hail up to one inch in diameter are possible, especially in the northwest counties. The severe threat zone includes Dalhart, Stratford, Dumas, and stretches southeast toward Pampa and Borger. While tornado risk remains very low, straight-line winds may bring down tree limbs and power lines, making travel dangerous on roads like US-87 and US-287.
Residents should secure outdoor items, keep mobile devices charged, and be ready for rapid changes. Avoid non-essential travel during the evening as sudden downpours could reduce visibility. It’s also wise to review severe weather alerts through multiple sources, such as NOAA Weather Radio or local news apps…