Amarillo TX Local News - February 23, 2026

Amarillo TX Local News Breaking news WILDFIRES NOW CONTAINED: The wildfires that have been burning across the Texas Panhandle are now contained, bringing relief to residents after days of battling blazes amid high winds [3]. This is a significant development from earlier this week when multiple fires were actively burning across the Texas and Oklahoma Panhandles [2]. TEEN IMPAIRED IN DEADLY CRASH: Amarillo Police report that a 17-year-old showed signs of alcohol impairment in the deadly crash that occurred at N. Fillmore and Amarillo Boulevard on Monday, Feb. 16, 2026, which left one person dead [2]. The crash scene was located in north Amarillo [2]. POTTER COUNTY BUDGET CRISIS: A clerical error involving a tax exemption for Tyson Foods has left Potter County facing a projected $412,000 deficit in the county's budget [5]. This significant revenue shortfall will require county officials to address the budget gap. XCEL POWER RESTORED: Xcel Energy has restored power to 11,700 customers after a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) and other outages affected the area during the high wind events [2]. Weather Current conditions show temperatures at 32°F, with a significant warm-up expected: Tuesday reaching 80°F and Wednesday at 77°F [2]. The dramatic temperature swing follows the containment of wildfires that had been burning across the Panhandle region [3]. Residents should remain aware that while fires are contained, the area experienced dangerous fire conditions due to high winds earlier in the week [2]. Events LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS 75TH ANNIVERSARY: The League of Women Voters of Amarillo is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. Founded in 1951, the organization continues its mission to empower voters and defend democracy in the Amarillo community [4]. This milestone represents three-quarters of a century of civic engagement in the Texas Panhandle. local business BBQ BRISKET PRICES RISING: Amarillo residents may see an increase in prices for their next BBQ brisket plate