Amarillo, Texas – Strong storms are forecast to move across the Texas Panhandle Friday evening, prompting a Severe Thunderstorm Watch until 11 p.m. for Dallam, Deaf Smith, Hartley, and Oldham counties. Forecasters warn that residents could experience damaging winds, large hail, and dangerous lightning as the line of storms advances eastward.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Oklahoma, the atmosphere remains primed for severe weather as instability and strong upper-level winds combine to fuel storm development. The watch will remain in effect through late Friday night, with forecasters noting that conditions could support rapid storm intensification.
Emergency officials are particularly concerned about travel hazards along U.S. Highway 87 and Interstate 40, where heavy downpours may lead to sudden reductions in visibility. Motorists are advised to exercise caution, delay travel if possible, and be prepared for quickly changing weather conditions.
Communities near Dalhart, Hereford, Vega, and Channing are expected to be in the path of the strongest activity. Winds from these storms may reach levels capable of snapping tree limbs, toppling weaker structures, and downing power lines. Local utility companies have placed crews on standby to respond quickly should outages occur.
The storms also threaten to disrupt outdoor activities, including Friday night football games and community events across the Panhandle. Organizers have been cautioned to monitor weather alerts closely and prepare to suspend or postpone gatherings if lightning or severe winds move into the area.
Authorities urge residents to take safety precautions ahead of the storms. Recommendations include securing loose outdoor items, ensuring mobile devices are fully charged in case of power interruptions, and identifying safe shelter locations. Should severe thunderstorm warnings be issued later tonight, residents are encouraged to move indoors immediately and avoid windows.
Although the Severe Thunderstorm Watch currently extends until 11 p.m., officials caution that additional advisories may be issued if storms persist into the overnight hours. For now, vigilance remains key as communities across the Texas Panhandle prepare for a turbulent evening of severe weather.
