The Texas Panhandle is bracing for extreme heat as cities like Amarillo, Borger, and Dumas face high temperatures with an 80% or greater chance of reaching 100°F through early next week. According to the National Weather Service, the region is transitioning from a brief period of rain into a hot and dry weather pattern that could last several days, exacerbating ongoing drought conditions.
What to Expect:
Amarillo and nearby areas, including Pampa, Guymon, and Clarendon, will experience triple-digit highs over the weekend, with Palo Duro Canyon expected to see the highest heat index, surpassing 100°F from Friday through Tuesday. The peak heat is expected on Sunday, with a 90% chance of hitting 103°F.
This extreme heat could pose serious health risks, especially for outdoor workers, children, and the elderly. Prolonged exposure to temperatures above 100°F could lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Safety Tips:
It’s crucial to limit outdoor activities during peak heat hours, especially from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.. Stay hydrated and wear light clothing to minimize the effects of the heat. Additionally, check on neighbors who may not have air conditioning, particularly the elderly and families with young children.
Never leave children or pets in vehicles, as temperatures inside cars can rise quickly to dangerous levels, even with windows cracked.
Five-Day Forecast (July 18–22):
Friday: High of 101°F, sunny and dry, heat index near 104°F.
Saturday: High of 102°F, slight breeze, very hot.
Sunday: High of 103°F, peak heat risk, avoid outdoor activity.
Monday: High of 100°F, continued heat, no rain expected.
Tuesday: High of 99°F, slightly cooler, still above average.
Looking Ahead:
The 6-10 day temperature outlook indicates that the Texas Panhandle will remain in the bullseye of above-normal heat, with below-average rainfall expected, which could worsen the already severe drought conditions.
Stay Informed:
Heat warnings will remain in effect through early next week, with updates expected daily. Stay alert for local heat alerts to stay prepared during this extreme heat wave.
