April 1, 2025

AMARILLO – The National Weather Service (NWS) of Amarillo is forecasting wind gusts of up 55-65 mph for the majority of the Amarillo District today, Tuesday, April 1 (see NWS of Amarillo pictured maps below).

Strong winds increase the potential for blowing dirt, causing limited to zero visibility for the traveling public. TxDOT is encouraging drivers to slow down and drive to conditions if they have to be out on the roads for this high-wind event. 

Some tips to follow for driving in windy conditions include:

- Always wear your seatbelt and keep your hands firmly on the wheel.

- Secure your loads.

- Watch the weather – The NWS of Amarillo has let us know what to expect. High winds will make it difficult to drive. Expect winds to be worse in exposed places, such as straight, open roads, bridges and overpasses, or between hills.

- Be aware of high-profile vehicles – Large trucks, vans, buses, and those towing cargo, are vulnerable to losing control or tipping over in high winds. They can also create turbulence for motorcycles and other small vehicles. Drivers should pay extra attention to the road and anticipate gusts in windy conditions.

- Keep your distance and keep your eyes open and on the road. We should always be aware of our surroundings when driving, but even more so in windy weather. 

- Be aware of anything on the side of the road that could blow into your path, such as branches, trees, tumbleweeds and other debris. If there are trees or other vegetation on the side of the road, look for how much it is moving, and if anything could possibly detach. 

- If you see a truck driving ahead that is losing its load, give it a lot of room. Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles to give yourself and other motorists time and space to react and avoid any debris in the road. 

- Turn on your headlights to see better through dust and dirt if the wind kicks up. 

- Give all vehicles a lot of space. They may be forced to veer or suddenly change lanes as a result of a sudden or strong gust of wind. 

- Keep your hands on the wheel – Heavy winds make it harder to steer and handle a vehicle, so keep a firm grip on the wheel. 

- Slow down. Driving slower than the posted speed limit helps lessen the dangers of wind and helps you better control the vehicle. Not only do you have less control of a vehicle the faster it is moving, but you also have less time to react. Sudden gusts of wind can cause problems that no one will be able to anticipate. If you are driving slower, you will have a better chance of avoiding them.

- If winds are severe enough to prevent safe driving, pull over into a safe parking area (not the side of the road) and stop. Ensure you park away from trees, power lines, or other tall objects that could fall onto your vehicle.

- Never drive over downed power lines as the high-voltage wires may still be alive and very dangerous. Also avoid anything that may be touching downed lines, including vehicles or tree branches.

The potential weather conditions also improve the chances for a possible wildfire. You can help first responders when it comes to preventing wildfires by:

- Avoid driving and/or parking in tall, dry grass. The underside of your vehicle may start wildfires if exposed to dry vegetation.

- Dragging chains may create sparks causing a wildfire. Secure trailer safety chains and ensure they will not come in contact with the road.

- Underinflated tires and/or tire failure pose a wildfire hazard. Wheel rims may produce sparks if contact is made with the pavement.

- Always obey local burn bans and outdoor burning restrictions.

As always, visit www.drivetexas.org for the most up-to-date road conditions.