Natural Disaster Risk in Amarillo

Natural Hazard Profile: Amarillo, Texas

Located in the arid interior West in Randall County, Amarillo is a city of approximately 43,578 residents. The diverse climate that characterizes this part of Texas — marked by an exceptionally varied climate from humid subtropical in the east to desert in the west — directly influences the types and severity of natural hazards present, making Amarillo a community where hazard awareness has real practical value.

FEMA rates Amarillo's composite natural disaster risk at 7.2 out of 10 — high risk. Large hail is the dominant natural hazard, with supercell thunderstorms regularly producing damaging hailstones capable of destroying crops, vehicles, and roofs. Residents should also account for winter and drought risk in their preparedness planning.

Relative to other U.S. communities, Amarillo's natural disaster risk is well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10, considerably above the 5.6/10 state average. The hazard distribution here is led by hail and winter, as measured by FEMA across Randall County. While city-specific sub-county variation exists, these scores represent the best available federal risk estimate.

Amarillo's high risk designation reflects meaningful exposure to natural hazards. Residents should verify that their insurance covers the area's primary risks, prepare a family emergency plan, and stay informed about seasonal hazard peaks through local weather and emergency management services.