Amarillo, TX – Fires could spread in minutes across the Texas and Oklahoma Panhandles by early Wednesday afternoon as wind gusts hit 35 mph and humidity drops to just 6 percent.
According to the National Weather Service in Amarillo, a Red Flag Warning remains in effect from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday for Cimarron and Texas counties in Oklahoma and much of the Texas Panhandle, including Dallam, Potter, Randall, and Deaf Smith counties. Southwest winds will range from 15 to 25 mph, combining with upper-80s heat and critically dry air.
Conditions will be especially volatile near Amarillo, Canyon, and along major corridors like I-40 and US-287, where open land and dry fuels increase ignition risk. Palo Duro Canyon is also under elevated threat, with fire spread potential rated high due to dry vegetation in the 70th to 89th percentile.
Outdoor burning, welding, and any spark-producing activity should be avoided. Residents are urged to secure trailer chains, properly discard cigarettes, and keep vehicles off dry grass to prevent accidental ignition.
A Fire Weather Watch is already in place for Thursday afternoon through evening, signaling another round of similar conditions. Additional warnings may be issued as fire risk continues through midweek.
