NWS warns Texas Panhandle storms could bring 2.5-inch hail and 75 mph winds

The National Weather Service’s Amarillo office warned Wednesday, June 24, that storms moving out of New Mexico could reach the Texas Panhandle later in the day with large hail, damaging winds and a low chance of tornado development.

The updated forecast said the strongest storms could produce hail up to 2.5 inches in diameter and wind gusts above 75 mph. The main threat window was expected from about 5 p.m. through midnight, with some impacts potentially continuing into early Thursday.

Amarillo, Boise City and Vega were placed in a moderate Level 2 risk area. Pampa and nearby communities were in a lower Level 1 risk area.

Earlier forecast changed as storms evolved

The Wednesday warning followed a Tuesday, June 23, forecast cycle that had already flagged the same basic hazards for parts of the Panhandle: large hail, damaging wind, a low tornado threat and the possibility of localized heavy rain.

The difference in the newer update was timing. Forecasters said the storms were expected to move east out of New Mexico and could still hold together as they crossed into the Panhandle later Wednesday.

Main hazards

The National Weather Service said the biggest risks were large hail and damaging wind gusts. The tornado risk remained low, but it was not zero.

Earlier coverage also pointed to the chance of heavy rain in some areas, and forecasters said the threat level would depend on how far east the storms survived as they moved across the region.

What to watch

Officials and forecasters will be watching whether the storm line remains strong into the eastern Panhandle and whether any severe thunderstorm or tornado warnings are issued later Wednesday.

Instability was also expected to continue Thursday, keeping the region in a pattern that could support additional storms.

Residents in the warned area should stay aware of alerts, especially during the evening commute and overnight hours.