Severe Wind Preparedness
Last updated:
03/19/2025
The Texas Panhandle is no stranger to high winds, and these winds can pose risks to public health, driving conditions, and cause power outages. To help Amarillo residents stay safe, here’s a guide with tips on how to protect yourself and your family during severe wind events.
Public Health Safety During High Winds
Protecting Yourself from Wind Exposure
- Stay Indoors: High winds can carry dust and debris, which can cause respiratory issues. Stay indoors as much as possible during severe wind events, especially if you have asthma, allergies, or respiratory conditions.
- Limit Outdoor Activities: If you must go outside, wear protective eyewear and a mask to avoid inhaling dust or debris. Cover your face with a scarf or cloth for added protection.
- Hydrate and Moisturize: Dry, windy conditions can dehydrate your skin and respiratory system. Drink plenty of water and use a humidifier or moisturizer to protect your skin and lungs.
Wildfire Risk
- Stay Alert to Wildfires: High winds increase the risk of wildfires spreading quickly. Avoid open flames, discard cigarettes properly, and refrain from burning leaves or other debris.
- Prepare for Evacuations: If you live in a wildfire-prone area, have a plan in place for evacuations. Ensure your emergency kit includes essentials like water, medications, important documents, and a flashlight.
- Know Fire Safety Procedures: Keep fire extinguishers in the home and know how to use them. Follow local authorities’ guidance regarding fire danger and possible evacuations.
Driving Safety During High Winds and Low Visibility
Driving in High Winds
- Avoid Driving If Possible: If you can, stay off the roads during extreme wind conditions. High winds can make driving dangerous, especially for high-profile vehicles like trucks, buses, and RVs.
- Keep Both Hands on the Wheel: Grip the steering wheel firmly and maintain control, as wind gusts can make your vehicle unstable.
- Slow Down and Keep Distance: Reduce your speed and keep a safe distance from other vehicles, especially larger trucks or trailers. Strong crosswinds can push vehicles off course unexpectedly.
- Watch for Debris: High winds can blow debris onto the road, such as tree branches, signs, or trash. Stay alert and be ready to react quickly.
Low Visibility
- Use Your Lights: In addition to headlights, use your fog lights or emergency flashers if visibility is extremely poor due to blowing dust or smoke.
- Pull Over Safely: If visibility is reduced to the point where it’s unsafe to drive, pull over to the side of the road and wait until conditions improve. Use your parking brake and turn on your hazard lights.
- Avoid Bridges and Overpasses: Wind gusts can be more intense on bridges and overpasses, making these areas particularly dangerous during high winds.
Electricity Power Shut-Offs
Preparing for Power Outages
- Emergency Kit: Keep a fully stocked emergency kit with essentials such as batteries, flashlights, a battery-powered radio, backup phone chargers, and non-perishable food items.
- Charge Devices in Advance: Before a windstorm, charge phones and devices to ensure they remain operational during a power outage.
- Backup Power Sources: If possible, invest in a portable generator to keep essential appliances running during an outage. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe operation.
- Xcel Energy Contact Information: If the power goes out, contact Xcel Energy for updates and assistance. Residential: (800) 895-1999, Business: (800) 481-4700.
Protecting Food During Power Outages
- Refrigeration Tips: Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to maintain temperature for up to 4 hours. If the power is out for more than 4 hours, transfer food to coolers with ice.
- Dispose of Unsafe Food: Perishable food that has been at room temperature for more than 2 hours should be discarded to prevent foodborne illness.
Power and Comfort Centers
During severe wind events that result in widespread power outages, the City of Amarillo, along with our partners, will work to establish Power and Comfort Centers throughout the community. These centers will provide a safe space for residents to charge devices, access water, and find shelter from extreme conditions.
Stay Informed: To find out where Power and Comfort Centers will be located during each event, please stay connected with our Office of Emergency Management social media pages and follow City of Amarillo communications. We will provide up-to-date information on available locations and services.