The Amarillo 5

Mind Arc Media

The Amarillo 5 is the premiere local news podcast for Amarillo TX. Get all your local daily news in 5 minutes or less. We cover daily weather, local events, crime reporting, local politics, local business and more. Look for a new episode at 5:00 am every morning.

  1. 57M AGO

    Amarillo Texas Local News - May 20, 2026

    Amarillo Texas Local News Breaking news: Wildfire evacuation zones are beginning a phased reentry as officials allow residents back into impacted areas of the Texas Panhandle . Xcel Energy is urging homeowners northwest of Amarillo whose properties were damaged by wildfires to check their equipment before power is restored, as crews work to resolve utility outages in areas affected by the Stinky Fire . In state news, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has sued a group calling itself Texas American Muslim University, accusing it of operating without state approval and misleading prospective students [1]. Weather: Extreme drought conditions continue to plague the region, recently disrupting trips and threatening Palo Duro Canyon as wildfires spread . Residents should remain vigilant about fire safety and follow local guidance on emergency preparations during this high-risk period . Events: With early voting underway, U.S. Sen. John Cornyn made a campaign stop in Amarillo on Tuesday morning as he faces Attorney General Ken Paxton in the Republican Senate runoff . This event comes shortly after former President Donald Trump officially endorsed Paxton in the race . local business: Xcel Energy crews are actively working to restore power in neighborhoods northwest of Amarillo affected by recent wildfires . The utility company is specifically urging residents with fire-damaged homes to have their electrical equipment checked before power is returned to the grid to prevent further hazards . school: There are no specific updates regarding Amarillo independent school districts in today's feed. However, at the higher education level, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a lawsuit against Texas American Muslim University, accusing the institution of operating without state approval and misleading would-be students [1]. The Roundup: An Amarillo man, Filemon Palicios, was killed in a rollover crash in Carson County around 7 a.m. Sunday, according to the Department of Public Safety . In health news, experts note that while arthritis can limit daily activities, there are effective ways to manage symptoms and maintain quality of life through three pillars of care and practical strategies [2]. Panhandle groups are also stepping up, collecting supplies for wildfire victims in Amarillo and Canyon . References https://www.newschannel10.com/2026/05/19/managing-arthritis-three-pillars-care-practical-strategies/ https://abc7amarillo.com/newsletter-daily/trump-says-he-will-endorse-in-texas-senate-race-by-early-afternoon

    2 min
  2. 1D AGO

    Amarillo Texas Local News - May 19, 2026

    Amarillo Texas Local News Breaking news: Weekend wildfires ravaged the Texas Panhandle, burning close to 70,000 acres combined. The Hungate Fire destroyed a home displacing a couple [4], and a well-known railroad trestle in Canyon collapsed due to the flames [5]. Ranchers in Randall County are tallying losses after hundreds of hay bales were destroyed [4]. Resources are now available for those affected by these recent wildfires [1]. In other news, the Amarillo Police Department and Texas DPS have formed a strategic partnership to combat rising gang-related violence, executing search warrants and making arrests for guns, marijuana, and cocaine [3][5]. Additionally, two individuals have been indicted on multiple fentanyl distribution charges [2], and an Amarillo man was killed in a rollover crash in Carson County on Sunday morning [4]. Weather: The region is under an extremely critical fire weather alert for Sunday and Monday due to drought conditions, wind gusts, and dry lightning storms [4][5]. Residents are urged to avoid any outdoor burning and prepare for potential evacuations, as mandatory evacuations were recently ordered in Potter County due to wildfire [4]. Keep emergency kits ready and monitor local alerts. Events: The Texas Panhandle War Memorial is readying a tribute to the fallen ahead of Memorial Day, providing a space for the community to honor local heroes [4]. local business: Fermi has filed a lawsuit against its former CEO, Toby Neugebauer. The company's board has also approved a bylaw amendment to prevent Neugebauer’s proposed director expansion [2]. school: The future of drag shows on university campuses in Texas hangs in the balance as Spectrum WT filed a petition for an en banc hearing in the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals. This follows Northern District of Texas, Amarillo Division Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk’s dismissal of the case against West Texas A&M University President Walter Wendler [2]. The Roundup: An Amarillo 12-year-old is walking again after a spinal tumor left her unable to move, marking a remarkable recovery

    2 min
  3. 2D AGO

    Amarillo Texas Local News - May 18, 2026

    Amarillo Texas Local News Breaking news: One person is dead following a multi-vehicle crash in north Amarillo on Monday evening. The collision occurred at N. Fillmore between S. 1st Avenue and N. 1st near Amarillo Boulevard, prompting police to close the section of Fillmore for investigation [5]. In other tragic news, five people were killed in a plane crash in Wimberley, Texas; the flight originally departed from Amarillo. The crash remains under investigation by the FAA and NTSB, with rainy conditions creating muddy challenges for recovery crews [6]. For commuters, TxDOT Amarillo has released its "Know Before You Go" report for the week of May 20, detailing upcoming lane closures across the district [3]. Weather: Residents should be on high alert as Sunday and Monday have been designated Weather Alert Days due to extremely critical fire weather conditions in the region [5]. Emergency preparation is highly recommended: avoid any outdoor activities that could spark a fire, ensure you have a go-kit ready, and have a clear evacuation plan in case of rapidly spreading wildfires. Following the critical fire weather, rain is expected to move in around 3 a.m., continuing on and off throughout the day, which could create muddy and challenging conditions on roadways and for ongoing outdoor work [6]. Events: Early voting for the May 26 primary runoff begins Monday, giving Democratic voters the opportunity to decide who will represent the party in the race for Texas lieutenant governor [1]. This is a crucial opportunity for Amarillo residents to make their voices heard at local polling locations before the final runoff election day. local business: FirstBank Southwest is opening a new temporary location in Canyon. Situated on 15th Street, the temporary branch will offer a full range of banking services for Canyon residents. The bank is celebrating with several events during its opening week [6]. school: Local high school athletes are competing at the highest level as the UIL State Track Meet for 2026 is currently underway. The meet features top talent from Classes 1A through 6A representing their schools and communities on the state stage [6]. The Roundup: In a disturbing local crime, a house-sitter was arrested after allegedly stealing a homeowner's car and dog, then abandoning the vehicle and leaving the dog inside to die [5]. On a more positive note for the community's future, a new facility is being built that will strengthen Pantex's mission and bolster national security [6]. History buffs and fast-food fans might be interested to learn that a Route 66 restaurant may have forever changed the fast food industry by pioneering the drive-thru concept [2]. Finally, consumers should stay vigilant as several food recalls and alerts have been issued this month over salmonella concerns, many linked to the same potentially contaminated ingredient [4]. References https://www.myhighplains.com/news/texas-politics/what-to-know-about-the-candidates-in-the-democratic-runoff-for-texas-lieutenant-governor/ https://www.myhighplains.com/destination-usa/how-a-route-66-rest...

    3 min
  4. 3D AGO

    Amarillo Texas Local News - May 17, 2026

    Amarillo Texas Local News Breaking news: Who: State officials and utility regulators.What: Growing scrutiny over utility profits as electric bills rise, a fight largely driven by the artificial intelligence boom increasing energy demand [2].Where: Texas, directly impacting Amarillo residents [2].When: Currently ongoing [2]. Additionally, President Trump and Energy Secretary Chris Wright have voiced support for suspending the federal gas tax to provide relief at the pump, which could affect Texas drivers [1]. Weather: No major weather events or storms are reported in the current findings for the Amarillo area. Residents are encouraged to maintain standard emergency preparedness kits at home and in vehicles, but no specific city-wide preparations are currently noted in the provided research. Events: No specific Amarillo local events are detailed in the current research findings. Residents looking for international entertainment can note that the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest final recently brought acts from 25 countries to the Wiener Stadthalle arena in Vienna [5]. local business: No specific Amarillo business openings, closings, or promotions are detailed in the current research findings. In broader industry news, demand for vacation cruises remains strong despite recent headlines regarding hantavirus and norovirus outbreaks on ships [3]. school: No updates regarding Amarillo elementary, middle, high schools, or colleges are present in the current research findings. The Roundup: In national news, communities in Morrill, Maine, are mourning a 27-year-old firefighter killed in a huge fire and explosion at a lumber mill, highlighting the inherent dangers first responders face [4]. In the automotive sector, Lexus is breaking its traditional luxury rulebook by shifting away from the decades-old standard that bigger sedans are the most important flagships [6]. References https://www.myhighplains.com/news/national/which-states-have-the-highest-gas-taxes/ https://www.myhighplains.com/news/national/ap-as-electric-bills-rise-some-states-are-focusing-on-the-growing-profits-of-utilities/ https://www.myhighplains.com/news/business/ap-demand-for-cruises-appears-undimmed-despite-hantavirus-and-other-onboard-outbreaks/ https://www.myhighplains.com/news/national/ap-maine-communities-mourn-the-27-year-old-firefighter-killed-in-a-lumber-mill-explosion/ https://www.myhighplains.com/entertainment-news/ap-the-10-best-performances-at-the-2026-eurovision-song-contest/ https://www.myhighplains.com/automotive/lexus-just-broke-its-own-luxury-rulebook/

    2 min
  5. 4D AGO

    Amarillo Texas Local News - May 16, 2026

    Amarillo Texas Local News Breaking news: The City of Amarillo is transitioning to a new utility billing system, which will result in a service outage from Thursday, March 26, through Monday, March 30 [1,4,5]. During this period, the city will be unable to process payments via phone, online, email, or in-person channels [4,5,6]. Officials have confirmed that no late fees will be assessed during this transition, and the new system is scheduled to go live on Tuesday, March 31 [4,5,6]. Weather: The forecast for Amarillo indicates sunny conditions with temperatures reaching 95°F on Wednesday and 97°F on Thursday [4,6]. Residents are advised to stay hydrated and monitor local updates for any changes in weather patterns. Events: The City of Amarillo has announced a free pet vaccine clinic scheduled for this Saturday [1]. This event is important for local pet owners to ensure their animals are up-to-date on necessary health requirements. local business: The City of Amarillo is currently seeking artists for the new Fitness Court project, providing a unique opportunity for local creative engagement [1]. school: Amarillo High School tennis players Olivia Hefley and Sara Shelhamer recently competed in a state title match, while Madison and Kate Brockman celebrated a state championship title [1]. Additionally, the UIL state track and field meet results were recently highlighted [1]. The Roundup: In a notable legal development, a third City of Amarillo employee has officially pleaded guilty in federal court for stealing money from the homeless [4,6]. Meanwhile, the Amarillo Police Department is actively investigating a homicide following the discovery of a man's body inside a local hotel room [4,6]. References https://www.amarillo.gov/news/2026/03/25/coa-to-debut-new-utility-billing-system-tuesday

    2 min
  6. 5D AGO

    Amarillo Texas Local News - May 15, 2026

    Amarillo Texas Local News Breaking news: Drivers navigating westbound I-40 at Amarillo Boulevard should prepare for main lane closures due to ongoing bridge work [1]. Traffic is being detoured to the frontage roads, so commuters should expect delays and plan alternate routes through this corridor [1]. Weather: Today's local feed does not contain updates on major weather events or emergency preparations for the Amarillo area. Events: Today's local feed does not contain announcements for local events with specific times, places, or pricing. local business: Today's local feed does not contain news regarding local business openings, closings, or promotional events. school: During Monday's Amarillo ISD Board of Trustees meeting, six staff members from South Georgia Elementary and George Washington Carver were honored with lifesaving awards [2]. This recognition highlights the critical, quick actions taken by local school personnel to protect lives on campus [2]. The Roundup: In a feel-good story of local heroism, the six Amarillo ISD staff members recognized for their lifesaving actions stand out as community heroes this week [2]. In broader news, the antipoverty nonprofit Global Citizen is hoping the upcoming World Cup halftime show will drive significant funding toward global education initiatives [3]. References https://amarillotribune.org/2026/05/14/in-brief-may-14-2026/ https://amarillotribune.org/2026/05/14/dont-miss-amarillo-isd-honors-six-staff-with-lifesaving-awards/ https://www.myhighplains.com/news/business/ap-antipoverty-advocate-global-citizen-hopes-the-world-cup-halftime-show-drives-money-for-education/

    1 min
  7. 6D AGO

    Amarillo Texas Local News - May 14, 2026

    Amarillo Texas Local News Breaking news The City of Amarillo is actively addressing a wave of resident backlash over unusually high water bills, with numerous customers reporting inflated charges that the city is now working to resolve [1]. In transportation news, drivers need to plan for delays as the main lanes of westbound I-40 at Amarillo Boulevard are currently closed for bridge work [2]. Weather There are no major storm events or severe weather warnings reported for the Amarillo area in the current forecast. Residents are always encouraged to maintain standard Panhandle emergency preparedness kits at home and in their vehicles, especially during transitional weather seasons. Events No specific local community events with times, locations, or pricing were included in today's news feed. Residents are encouraged to check local venue schedules for weekend activities. local business There are no reports of local business openings, closings, or major promotional events in today's news cycle. school A unique educational initiative is taking shape in north Amarillo with the development of the Golden Plains Community School. This institution is taking a personalized approach to education, offering specialized support designed to assist families well beyond traditional student academics [3]. The Roundup On a regional economic note, politicians in neighboring New Mexico are currently grappling with a significant oil windfall resulting from the Iran war and the bottleneck in the Strait of Hormuz—a financial surge that has broad implications for the regional oil and gas economy, including the Texas Panhandle [5]. In a health update regarding a previously monitored situation, health officials have confirmed that a possible hantavirus case currently under investigation in Illinois is not linked to the MV Hondius cruise ship [4]. References https://abc7amarillo.com/newsletter-daily/city-of-amarillo-addresses-residents-concerns-of-high-water-bills-heather-ward-elaine-oliver-grayson-path-utility-billing-smart-meters https://amarillotribune.org/2026/05/13/in-brief-may-13-2026/ https://amarillotribune.org/2026/05/13/community-school-developing-in-north-amarillo-hopes-to-support-families-beyond-student-education/ https://www.myhighplains.com/life-health/health/possible-hantavirus-case-not-linked-to-mv-hondius-ship-investigated-in-illinois/ https://www.myhighplains.com/news/national/ap-new-mexico-politicians-grapple-with-oil-windfall-from-iran-war-thats-both-awesome-and-awkward/

    2 min
  8. MAY 13

    Amarillo Texas Local News - May 13, 2026

    Amarillo Texas Local News Breaking news U.S. Senator John Cornyn introduced legislation on Monday to designate US Highway 287 as a future interstate highway named in honor of President Donald Trump [1]. Who: Sen. John Cornyn. What: Bill introduced to rename US-287 as the 'Trump Interstate'. Where: US Highway 287, a vital north-south artery running directly through Amarillo. When: Legislation introduced Monday [1]. This development is of particular importance to Amarillo residents, as US-287 is a critical local route for both daily commuting and regional commerce. Weather Current research findings do not contain specific Amarillo weather alerts or forecasts for the upcoming week. As always in the High Plains, residents are encouraged to stay vigilant for sudden severe weather changes. It is recommended to keep emergency kits stocked with water, non-perishable food, and a weather radio, and to have a shelter plan in place should spring storms arise. Events Today's feed does not list specific Amarillo community events. However, for Texas sports fans planning travel, ESPN's College GameDay is heading to Austin for the marquee Week 2 college football showdown between the Texas Longhorns and the Ohio State Buckeyes . local business Today's research findings do not include updates on local Amarillo business openings, closures, or promotional events. school Caprock High School Senior Alyssa Graves is preparing to walk across the stage for graduation . During her time at Caprock, Graves has earned several accolades, marking a significant academic milestone as she completes her high school career . The Roundup The proposed renaming of US-287 to the 'Trump Interstate' by Sen. Cornyn carries significant infrastructural and financial implications for Amarillo [1]. As a major commercial artery, any future interstate designation could alter federal funding, maintenance standards, and local traffic patterns, making it a critical story for local commuters and business owners to monitor. On a community note, the academic achievements of Caprock Senior Alyssa Graves highlight the positive strides of Amarillo's youth as graduation season arrives . References https://www.myhighplains.com/news/espns-college-gameday-coming-to-austin-for-showdown-with-ohio-state/

    2 min

About

The Amarillo 5 is the premiere local news podcast for Amarillo TX. Get all your local daily news in 5 minutes or less. We cover daily weather, local events, crime reporting, local politics, local business and more. Look for a new episode at 5:00 am every morning.