Amarillo Weather Alert: Fall Warmth Fades as Weekend Cold Snap Sweeps Across the Panhandle

AMARILLO, TEXAS — The Texas Panhandle’s stretch of pleasant fall warmth is about to come to an abrupt end. Forecasters say a major cold front will sweep through the region this weekend, bringing a 30-degree temperature drop, gusty north winds, and the season’s first taste of winter just in time for Veterans Day events.

According to the National Weather Service in Amarillo, highs near 82°F on Thursday will tumble into the low 50s by Sunday, marking a dramatic shift from the week’s sunny calm to brisk, late-autumn air.

Thursday–Friday: Mild Sunshine Before the Drop

Thursday brings one last day of warmth with bright skies and mild southerly breezes. Highs will hover in the low 80s, perfect for outdoor plans before the cold front arrives.

Friday remains dry but slightly cooler, with highs near 70°F and winds beginning to turn from the north by evening — a sign that the front is closing in.

Saturday: Gusty Winds and a Sharp Cooldown

By Saturday, the Panhandle will feel the full force of the change. North winds up to 30 mph will sweep across I-40, especially near Dumas and Dalhart, where open terrain could create dusty travel conditions and difficult handling for trucks or trailers.

Temperatures will drop steadily through the day, from mid-60s in the morning to the 30s by nightfall. While skies will remain sunny, the north-northeast flow will make it feel much colder, signaling that the region’s mild streak has officially ended.

Sunday: Chilly Air and Freezing Mornings

Sunday morning will bring wind chills in the upper 30s, with afternoon highs struggling to reach the low 50s. The crisp, dry air will stick around through the day — ideal for outdoor events, but a noticeable chill for early Veterans Day parades and football playoffs.

By Sunday night, temperatures could dip below freezing for the first time this season, prompting officials to remind residents to protect pipes, pets, and plants.

Next Week: Arctic Air and Possible Flurries

The Arctic air mass pushing across the central U.S. will continue its southward march early next week. Forecasters say freezing lows may return by Monday night, with the potential for light flurries across the High Plains by midweek as temperatures plunge into the 20s.

While widespread snow isn’t expected yet, it’s a clear signal that winter is knocking at the Panhandle’s door.

Five-Day Forecast for Amarillo, TX

• Thursday: 82° / 44° – Sunny and breezy; mild afternoon warmth.
• Friday: 70° / 44° – Sunny; cooler air building by evening.
• Saturday: 64° / 35° – Gusty north winds; steady cooling all day.
• Sunday: 51° / 29° – Chilly, mostly sunny; early freeze possible.
• Monday: 58° / 31° – Clear and cold; calm winds return.

Residents across the Texas Panhandle should take precautions now — secure loose outdoor items, check heating systems, and bundle up for a chilly Veterans Day weekend ahead. Though the skies stay clear, the wind and temperature drop will make it feel unmistakably like winter’s first arrival.

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