Amarillo Weather Alert: Hail, Strong Winds, and Thunderstorms Expected Friday as Fall Front Moves In
AMARILLO, TEXAS — Residents across the Texas Panhandle are being urged to stay weather-aware heading into Friday evening, as forecasters warn of hail-producing thunderstorms, damaging winds, and the potential for localized flooding.
According to the National Weather Service in Amarillo, a developing storm system will pull humid Gulf air northward, colliding with an advancing fall cold front. The result — a line of fast-moving storms capable of producing hail up to ping-pong-ball size and wind gusts reaching 60 mph.
Storms Expected to Intensify Friday Afternoon
Meteorologists say the strongest storms will form late Friday afternoon and continue into the night, mainly impacting the central and eastern Texas Panhandle — including Potter, Carson, and Randall counties.
“Storms could strengthen quickly as they move east,” forecasters cautioned Thursday morning. “Residents should monitor weather alerts and have multiple ways to receive warnings.”
Drivers along I-40 and U.S. Highway 87 may experience reduced visibility, heavy rainfall, and ponding water during peak storm activity. While widespread flooding is not expected, localized flash flooding could occur if storms repeatedly pass over the same area.
Spotter Activation Possible Friday Evening
Although storm spotter activation isn’t currently planned, the National Weather Service says it could become necessary if storm coverage expands by Friday evening. Emergency managers are reminding residents to secure outdoor decorations, patio furniture, and Halloween displays, as strong winds could easily displace loose objects.
Cooler, Calmer Weekend Ahead
Conditions are expected to improve by Saturday morning, though a few lingering showers may persist until midday. Sunshine and drier air will return by Sunday, bringing a pleasant fall weekend with highs near the upper 70s.
“It’s a wet and windy finale to the week,” the NWS added, “but Sunday looks ideal for outdoor plans or fall cleanup.”
The same cold front pushing through Texas will extend northward, delivering the first widespread frost of the season from Iowa to Virginia — a reminder that winter weather patterns are approaching.
Five-Day Amarillo Forecast
Thursday: 73° / 53° — Partly sunny; light south wind.
Friday: 74° / 50° — Showers & thunderstorms likely; gusts up to 35 mph.
Saturday: 66° / 45° — Morning showers; clearing late and cooler.
Sunday: 78° / 48° — Mostly sunny; light breeze, pleasant.
Monday: 69° / 40° — Sunny and crisp; cooler air moving in.
Residents are encouraged to monitor real-time weather updates and follow alerts from the National Weather Service throughout the weekend.
Author: Tanya Williams Category: Weather
I’ve lived in Naperville long enough to see how quickly our community changes — from new developments downtown to sudden shifts in our Midwest weather. Reporting on Naperville news and daily forecasts gives me the chance to keep neighbors informed about what really matters. My goal is simple: deliver clear, timely updates so you always know what’s happening in our city and what to expect from the skies above.