Heads up, Amarillo! This Sunday, the weather is about to throw a curveball your way, with 94°F temperatures and gusty winds expected to hit the area. If you’ve been enjoying the mild spring weather, now is the time to get ready for something a little more intense. Whether you’ve got outdoor plans or need to take care of some errands, it’s going to be one of those days when the weather might feel a little too much.
What to Expect This Sunday
By Sunday afternoon, temperatures in Amarillo are going to climb to a scorching 94°F, and along with the heat, the wind will pick up, gusting as high as 45 mph. This is going to create a combination of blistering heat and dry, gusty winds that will make things feel uncomfortable. It’s not just about the temperature; the wind is going to make it feel like the heat is turning up even higher. And that wind? It’s going to be blowing dust everywhere, which could make your time outside even more unpleasant.
Why is this Happening?
It’s all due to a high-pressure system that’s pushing in warm, dry air from the southwest. When this happens, we not only get the heat but also these strong, gusty winds. The winds will stir up dust, reduce visibility, and just make the whole day feel harsh. Amarillo is no stranger to extreme weather, but the combination of heat and wind on Sunday is going to be one of those days where you’ll want to take extra precautions to stay comfortable and safe.
How This Weather Will Affect Your Day
Outdoor Activities
Planning to spend the day outdoors? It’s going to be tough. The combination of 94°F heat and 45 mph winds is going to make even short trips outside uncomfortable. Whether you’re thinking of hitting the park, doing some yard work, or running errands, you might want to rethink your plans. The dust blowing through the air could make it hard to breathe and might irritate your eyes. If you do need to go outside, keep it short and stay in the shade when you can.
Driving Conditions
Driving could also get tricky. The wind gusts will make it difficult to control your vehicle, especially if you drive a larger car or truck. There’s also a chance of dust storms, which could reduce visibility quickly. If you’re heading out, lower your speed, give yourself plenty of room between cars, and be extra cautious on highways. If dust storms start to roll in, pull over to the side of the road and wait for the conditions to improve.
Gardening and Yard Work
If you’ve been tending to your garden, Sunday’s weather is going to be a tough one for your plants. The strong winds could damage delicate flowers, blow away mulch, or even knock over lighter items like planters. If you absolutely have to water your garden, do it early in the morning, before the wind really picks up. And if possible, try to cover your plants to protect them from the dry air. It’s also a good idea to secure anything in your yard that might get blown around.
Health Risks
Heat and wind aren’t just uncomfortable—they can also be dangerous for your health. The dry air will quickly dehydrate your body, and the heat can leave you feeling dizzy or lightheaded if you don’t stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, and avoid getting too hot or spending too much time outside. If you start feeling weak, dizzy, or overheated, take a break in a cool space and rehydrate. The wind can also dry out your skin, so make sure to apply moisturizer and keep your skin protected from the harsh conditions.
How to Prepare for the Day
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Stay Hydrated: Drink water before you’re thirsty, especially on hot, windy days like Sunday. If you’re outside, carry a water bottle with you, and try to avoid caffeinated drinks or alcohol since they can make you more dehydrated.
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Wear Sun Protection: The sun is going to be intense. Even if you’re not directly in it for long, apply sunscreen to any exposed skin, including your face, neck, and arms. You’ll also want to wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from both the bright sun and the blowing dust. A hat will give you some extra protection.
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Secure Your Outdoor Items: If you’ve got any outdoor furniture, planters, or decorative items in your yard, now’s the time to make sure they’re secured. The wind could easily knock over anything that’s not firmly anchored, so bring anything light inside or make sure it’s weighted down.
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Dress Smart: Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing to help you stay cool. Avoid dark colors, as they absorb more heat. Breathable fabrics like cotton will help keep your body temperature in check, and you’ll want to keep a light jacket or shawl on hand for when the wind picks up. Closed-toed shoes will also protect your feet from the blowing dust.
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Limit Time Outside: Try to stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day (usually from noon to 3 p.m.). If you need to be outside, take breaks often to cool down and rehydrate. Spend time in air-conditioned spaces when you can, and if you’re working outdoors, pace yourself.
Sunday is shaping up to be an uncomfortable day in Amarillo, with 94°F heat and high winds combining for a real challenge. If you’ve got plans, especially if they involve being outside for long periods, you’ll need to adjust. The heat and dust can cause discomfort and even pose health risks if you’re not careful. Stay hydrated, protect your skin, and keep your time outdoors to a minimum. With a little preparation, you’ll be able to handle whatever this intense day throws at you!
