Summer may not have officially arrived in Amarillo just yet, but we are going to feel some extreme heat on Thursday throughout the panhandle. The area that is forecasted to be hardest hit by the high temperatures will be down in Palo Duro Canyon. Along with the hot weather, we also will run the risk of isolated strong to severe storms developing in the afternoon.

A ridge of high pressure and light winds have been setting up shop over the central part of the United States. This dynamic will allow for our temperatures to rise and our chance for some isolated storms to develop across the area. The hot temperatures will increase the instability in the atmosphere and allow some of the storms to be on the stronger side. Damaging winds and hail to the size of ping-pong balls could be possible in a few of the storms.

While Amarillo will see a high around 100 degrees, along the floor of Palo Duro Canyon, temperatures will be above the century mark. Expect highs in the Canyon to hit 105+. Keep in mind our normal daytime high temperatures for this time of the year are in the mid 80's. And don't expect to see those normal temperatures returning anytime soon. The forecast calls for temperatures in the mid to upper 90's right on through the weekend and into next week.

Credit: National Weather Service
Credit: National Weather Service
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If you are planning any activities outdoors now through the weekend, make sure you take precautions for the hot weather. Wear light clothing and sunscreen while outside. Make sure you drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks. If you plan on being down in Palo Duro Canyon, you need to make sure you have water and proper supplies before you engage in any hiking activities. And please, do not leave any pets in cars or out in the open without shade. Temperatures in vehicles will be deadly in a matter of moments.

Credit: National Weather Service
Credit: National Weather Service
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