Amarillo Texas Local News - May 25, 2026

Amarillo Texas Local News - May 25, 2026

Amarillo Texas Local News Breaking news: FIFA is projecting massive financial gains for the 2026 World Cup cycle, with soaring ticket prices potentially helping the organization pull in $15 billion [1] [https://www.myhighplains.com/news/soaring-ticket-prices-could-help-fifa-pull-in-15b-this-world-cup-cycle-where-does-the-money-come-from-where-does-it-go/]. Ticketing and hospitality revenue alone is projected to reach a minimum of $7.44 billion, which is more than double FIFA's budget and consistent with stadium dynamics [1] [https://www.myhighplains.com/news/soaring-ticket-prices-could-help-fifa-pull-in-15b-this-world-cup-cycle-where-does-the-money-come-from-where-does-it-go/]. This is highly relevant to North Texas, as Dallas serves as a host city, meaning local economic impacts and host city payments are anticipated to be substantial [1] [https://www.myhighplains.com/news/soaring-ticket-prices-could-help-fifa-pull-in-15b-this-world-cup-cycle-where-does-the-money-come-from-where-does-it-go/]. In national political news, Republicans who have historically held a hard line on Iran are criticizing President Donald Trump's emerging proposal to end the war, leaving lawmakers, former Cabinet members, and conservative analysts wondering about the details of the deal Trump said was largely negotiated [6] [https://www.myhighplains.com/news/political-news/ap-republicans-who-have-drawn-a-hard-line-on-iran-pan-trumps-emerging-proposal-to-end-the-war]. Weather: No major storm events or severe weather warnings for Amarillo are present in today's regional data feed. Residents should continue to monitor local forecasts and maintain standard emergency preparedness kits, but no specific city-wide weather preparations or major forecast events are currently reported in this cycle. Events: Today's feed does not list specific local Amarillo events. However, regionally, the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup stands as a major event with Dallas serving as a host city, which will draw significant tourism and economic activity to the North Texas region [1] [https://www.myhighplains.com/news/soaring-ticket-prices-could-help-fifa-pull-in-15b-this-world-cup-cycle-where-does-the-money-come-from-where-does-it-go/]. local business: While no specific Amarillo business openings, closings, or promotions are reported in today's feed, the broader Texas economic climate continues to show strength. According to U.S. News & World Report, Texas cities are shining nationally for affordability and quality of life for 2026–2027, with cities like Flower Mound and Leander ranking among the nation's top places to live [3] [https://www.myhighplains.com/news/texas-cities-shine-nationally-for-affordability-and-quality-of-life]. This statewide affordability trend continues to support local business recruitment and economic stability in the Panhandle. school: Today's feed does not contain specific Amarillo school academic or sports updates. At the regional sports level, Texas golf is making headlines as Wyndham Clark shot an 11-under 60 to win the CJ Cup Byron Nelson in McKinney, Texas, overtaking Si Woo Kim by three strokes and pulling away from Scottie Scheffler [4] [https://www.myhighplains.com/sports/ap-wyndham-clark-shoots-60-to-win-byron-nelson-pulling-away-from-si-woo-kim-and-scottie-scheffler]. The Roundup: In international sports news, Lionel Messi headed into the World Cup break earlier than planned, leaving Argentina waiting to see if there is an injury after he left midway through the second half of Inter Miami's 6-4 rally past the Union [5] [https://www.myhighplains.com/sports/ap-messi-leaves-midway-through-second-half-inter-miami-rallies-past-union-6-4]. In the NHL, Tomas Hertl scored the winner at 8:21 of the third period to cap a wild 5-3 rally for the Golden Knights, giving them a 3-0 series lead over the Avalanche [9] [https://www.myhighplains.com/sports/ap-hertls-late-winner-caps-golden-knights-wild-5-3-rally-giving-them-a-3-0-series-lead-on-avalanche]. Internationally, authorities are investigating safety lapses after a gas explosion at the Liushenyu coal mine in China killed at least 82 people Friday evening; two remain missing and dozens of miners were hospitalized [2] [https://www.myhighplains.com/news/world/ap-authorities-investigate-safety-lapses-after-china-coal-mine-blast-kills-at-least-82]. In other sports headlines, Fred Kerley ran 100 meters in 9.97 seconds to win the Enhanced Games in Las Vegas [10] [https://www.myhighplains.com/sports/ap-kerley-runs-9-97-at-enhanced-games-where-kristian-gkolomeev-gets-a-1m-bonus-for-swimming-mark], Arsenal's players finally got their hands on the Premier League trophy with billionaire owner Stan Kroenke watching on https://www.myhighplains.com/sports/ap-kroenkes-watch-on-as-arsenals-players-finally-get-their-hands-on-the-premier-league-trophy

Amarillo Texas Local News - May 24, 2026

Amarillo Texas Local News Breaking news Mayor Stanley Addresses TCEQ Violation and City Accountability in Stinky Fire: Mayor Cole Stanley publicly addressed the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality's confirmed violation involving the city's landfill operations, acknowledging potential city accountability in the wildfire that destroyed 52 homes. The TCEQ investigation on May 7 confirmed the landfill was not properly covering trash [1] [https://abc7amarillo.com/topic/Braking][8] [https://abc7amarillo.com/news/local/severe-thunderstorm-watches-in-effect-may-23-2026]. In response, the City of Amarillo Landfill closed early at 11:00 AM on Saturday, May 23rd, to allow crews to focus on covering waste material across the site [4] [https://www.facebook.com/CityOfAmarillo/posts/the-city-of-amarillo-landfill-will-close-early-at-1100am-saturday-may-23rd-to-al/1425418469625408]. Gov. Abbott Announces FEMA Grant for Potter County Wildfire Response: Governor Greg Abbott has announced a FEMA grant to support Potter County's ongoing wildfire response efforts, providing critical federal assistance as the region recovers from devastating fires [8] [https://abc7amarillo.com/news/local/severe-thunderstorm-watches-in-effect-may-23-2026]. Third Former City Employee Pleads Guilty in Homeless Funds Scheme: A third former city employee has pleaded guilty to charges related to the misappropriation of homeless funds, deepening the scandal surrounding the misuse of public money intended for vulnerable populations [8] [https://abc7amarillo.com/news/local/severe-thunderstorm-watches-in-effect-may-23-2026]. Crews Contain Fires in Oldham and Carson Counties: Multiple agencies responded to and successfully contained several fires that broke out across the Panhandle region on Saturday, May 23rd [3] [https://www.newschannel10.com/2026/05/23/priest-accused-stealing-160000-his-own-parish-turns-himself-police]. Weather Severe Thunderstorm Watch in Effect: The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for portions of the Central and Western Panhandles until 11:00 PM CDT on May 23rd. These storms pose threats of large hail up to golf ball size and damaging winds of 60–70 mph. The best chance for severe weather is in the central Texas Panhandle, including Amarillo, Canyon, Dalhart, Dumas, Borger, Pampa, Hereford, and surrounding areas . Recommended Preparations: Residents should have multiple ways of receiving alerts, especially if outdoors or in areas with limited cell service. Secure loose outdoor items, have an interior room ready for shelter, and ensure emergency kits are stocked . Forecast Overview: Current conditions are fair at 57°F. Today calls for mostly sunny skies with a slight chance of thunderstorms and a high of 86°F. Monday reaches 89°F under partly cloudy skies. Tuesday brings scattered thunderstorms with a high of 82°F [5] [https://preview.weather.gov/ama]. Events Fire Victim Resource Fair — Saturday, May 24th: A resource fair is being held for residents affected by the Stinky Fire that destroyed 52 homes. The fair connects victims with assistance programs, relief organizations, and city services. Location and time details are available through the Amarillo Tribune [7] [https://amarillo.com/news]. 2026 American Music Awards — Monday, May 25th: The 52nd AMAs air live coast-to-coast at 8:00 PM ET / 5:00 PT from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Karol G receives the International Artist Award of Excellence, Billy Idol accepts a Lifetime Achievement Award, and BTS will make a special live appearance [2] [https://abc7amarillo.com/news/entertainment/2026-american-music-awards-everything-you-need-to-know-taylor-swift-sabrina-carpenter-bts-keith-urban-hooty-riley-green-pussycat-dolls-karol-g-billy-idol]. local business Goodwill Opens New Amarillo Store and Donation Center: Goodwill Industries of Northwest Texas has opened a new retail store and donation center at 2271 S.E. 27th Ave in Amarillo, expanding access to affordable goods and donation services for residents [3] [https://www.newschannel10.com/2026/05/23/priest-accused-stealing-160000-his-own-parish-turns-himself-police]. FBSW Opens Full-Service Banking Center in Canyon: FBSW celebrated the grand opening of its full-service banking center in Canyon, drawing a full crowd. The new location expands financial services access for the greater Amarillo-Canyon metro area [8] [https://abc7amarillo.com/news/local/severe-thunderstorm-watches-in-effect-may-23-2026]. school Questions Raised Over Amarillo ISD Graduation Fireworks During Active Wildfires: Criticism has surfaced after fireworks were used during Amarillo ISD graduation ceremonies while wildfires were actively burning in the region. Residents questioned the judgment of proceeding with pyrotechnics given the extreme fire danger and ongoing wildfire response [6] [https://www.myhighplains.com/news/your-local-election-hq/questions-raised-over-amarillo-isd-graduation-fireworks-during-active-wildfires]. Te...

Amarillo Texas Local News - May 23, 2026

Amarillo Texas Local News Breaking news: Landfill Superintendent Fired After Stinky Fire Destroys 52 Homes — The City of Amarillo's landfill superintendent has been terminated after a Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) investigation confirmed the landfill was not properly covering trash in the weeks before the devastating Stinky Fire escaped the landfill and destroyed 52 homes [1] [https://www.amarillo.com/story/opinion/columns/guest/2026/05/23/we-need-to-talk-about-what-home-looks-like-for-amarillo-seniors-opinion-guest-column/90044796007/]. Mayor Cole Stanley has publicly addressed the TCEQ violation and potential city accountability, stating the investigation on May 7 confirmed operational failures at the landfill [1] [https://www.amarillo.com/story/opinion/columns/guest/2026/05/23/we-need-to-talk-about-what-home-looks-like-for-amarillo-seniors-opinion-guest-column/90044796007/][4] [https://abc7amarillo.com/news/nation-world/vance-gives-update-on-fraud-investigations-warns-more-people-will-be-prosecuted-nick-shirley-minnesota-donald-trump]. City Manager Grayson Path issued an update on ongoing operational changes at the landfill, though community members on the city's Facebook page expressed frustration, with some calling for additional personnel changes and suggesting the problems have existed for years [5] [https://abc7amarillo.com/question/vote-should-congress-pass-a-law-that-protects-citizens-from-politically-motivated-prosecutions-question-of-the-day-anti-weaponization-fund-justice-department-todd-blanche-republicans-capitol-hill]. Residents have also raised concerns about methane gas and urged the EPA to investigate, suggesting the environmental issue may be larger than currently acknowledged [5] [https://abc7amarillo.com/question/vote-should-congress-pass-a-law-that-protects-citizens-from-politically-motivated-prosecutions-question-of-the-day-anti-weaponization-fund-justice-department-todd-blanche-republicans-capitol-hill]. Man Charged with Murder After Decomposing Body Found in Car — Amarillo police have charged a man with murder following the discovery of a decomposing body in a vehicle. Details remain limited as the investigation is ongoing [2] [https://abc7amarillo.com/news/local/amarillo-landfill-superintendent-fired-after-stinky-fire-destroyed-52-homes-city-manager-crayson-path-texas-commission-on-environmental-quality-tceq-violation-fallout][3] [https://abc7amarillo.com/news/entertainment/sadie-robertson-opens-up-about-baby-daughters-diagnosis-after-terrifying-choking-incident]. Weather: Current conditions are partly cloudy with temperatures around 58–72°F. PM Thunderstorms are forecast for both Saturday (high 78–79°F) and Sunday (high 84–87°F), continuing into Monday (high 85–87°F) [2] [https://abc7amarillo.com/news/local/amarillo-landfill-superintendent-fired-after-stinky-fire-destroyed-52-homes-city-manager-crayson-path-texas-commission-on-environmental-quality-tceq-violation-fallout][4] [https://abc7amarillo.com/news/nation-world/vance-gives-update-on-fraud-investigations-warns-more-people-will-be-prosecuted-nick-shirley-minnesota-donald-trump]. Given the recent wildfire devastation from the Stinky Fire, residents in wildfire-affected areas should remain vigilant during thunderstorm activity. The city recommends: securing loose debris and outdoor items that could become wind-borne; ensuring gutters and drainage areas are clear to prevent flash flooding; keeping emergency kits stocked with flashlights, batteries, and water; and monitoring local alerts via the ABC7 Amarillo weather app. Texas Panhandle VOAD cleanup crews remain active in wildfire-affected zones, and residents should be aware that saturated soil in burn-scarred areas may be prone to runoff and debris flows during heavy rain [4] [https://abc7amarillo.com/news/nation-world/vance-gives-update-on-fraud-investigations-warns-more-people-will-be-prosecuted-nick-shirley-minnesota-donald-trump]. Events: Transformation Park Court Navigation Program Launch — Transformation Park is launching a new program designed to help Amarillo's homeless population navigate the court system. This initiative aims to provide legal guidance and support for individuals experiencing homelessness who face legal barriers to housing and services. Time and specific location details are available through Transformation Park's official channels https://abc7amarillo.com/news/local/amarillo-landfill-superintendent-fired-after-stinky-fire-destroyed-52-homes-city-manager-crayson-path-texas-commission-on-environmental-quality-tceq-violation-fallout

Amarillo Texas Local News - May 22, 2026

Amarillo Texas Local News Breaking news A Nevada woman is facing federal charges after the FBI thwarted her alleged plot to kidnap, rob, and extort an Amarillo businessman [1] [https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/nevada-woman-arrested-for-planning-kidnapping-robbery-of-amarillo-man/]. In Potter County, the Stinky Fire is now 100% contained as of May 21, though 77 homes were lost or damaged in the blaze [6] [https://abc7amarillo.com/news/nation-world/tennessee-redistricting-chancery-court-case-naacp-emergency-challenge-new-congressional-map-memphis-republican-majority-districts-shelby-county]. Amarillo city officials are scheduled to hold a news conference Friday to address the ongoing landfill fire and the TCEQ response, following years of local complaints regarding the site [6] [https://abc7amarillo.com/news/nation-world/tennessee-redistricting-chancery-court-case-naacp-emergency-challenge-new-congressional-map-memphis-republican-majority-districts-shelby-county]. Residents in certain areas of Fritch experienced an unexpected water outage due to an emergency water service interruption [3] [https://abc7amarillo.com/news/nation-world/george-soros-osf-pledges-300m-to-defend-civil-liberties-critics-point-to-the-timing-democratic-rights-open-society-congress-president-donald-trump?teaserSource=trending]. Additionally, Amarillo police have obtained a murder warrant for a teenager in connection to the May 2 shooting at Westminster Apartments, and a third suspect is currently being sought [7] [https://abc7amarillo.com/news/nation-world/stephen-colbert-to-deliver-one-last-goodbye-as-the-late-show-goes-dark-cbs-news-david-letterman-financial-decision-paramount-president-trump-settlement-60-minutes-guests-late-night-television]. Weather A FIRST ALERT has been issued for possible severe thunderstorms on Friday [6] [https://abc7amarillo.com/news/nation-world/tennessee-redistricting-chancery-court-case-naacp-emergency-challenge-new-congressional-map-memphis-republican-majority-districts-shelby-county]. Residents are recommended to secure outdoor items, have emergency kits prepared, and stay weather-aware as the pattern shifts. While the Atlantic hurricane season is forecasted to be milder than normal thanks to a developing El Nino, local attention remains on immediate severe weather threats in the Panhandle [2] [https://www.myhighplains.com/news/national/ap-atlantic-hurricane-season-forecast-to-be-milder-than-normal-thanks-to-el-nino/]. Events Amarillo ISD and Canyon ISD Graduations: NewsChannel 10 is set to stream the graduation ceremonies for both Amarillo ISD and Canyon ISD [6] [https://abc7amarillo.com/news/nation-world/tennessee-redistricting-chancery-court-case-naacp-emergency-challenge-new-congressional-map-memphis-republican-majority-districts-shelby-county]. These events mark the important academic transition for local students, and the streaming option provides free access (Price: Free) for the community to celebrate from anywhere [6] [https://abc7amarillo.com/news/nation-world/tennessee-redistricting-chancery-court-case-naacp-emergency-challenge-new-congressional-map-memphis-republican-majority-districts-shelby-county]. local business FBSW Banking Center Opening: FirstBank Southwest (FBSW) has officially opened a full-service banking center in Canyon, drawing a full crowd for its launch [7] [https://abc7amarillo.com/news/nation-world/stephen-colbert-to-deliver-one-last-goodbye-as-the-late-show-goes-dark-cbs-news-david-letterman-financial-decision-paramount-president-trump-settlement-60-minutes-guests-late-night-television]. This expansion provides local residents and businesses with increased access to financial services in the area. school It is graduation season for the Amarillo area. Both Amarillo ISD and Canyon ISD are holding their graduation ceremonies, marking a significant academic and athletic milestone for local high school seniors as they prepare for their next steps [6] [https://abc7amarillo.com/news/nation-world/tennessee-redistricting-chancery-court-case-naacp-emergency-challenge-new-congressional-map-memphis-republican-majority-districts-shelby-county]. The Roundup Amarillo police are warning residents about a serious phone scam where callers claim to have kidnapped a loved one, demanding ransom while a crying voice is heard in the background; authorities advise hanging up immediately and calling the loved one directly to verif...

Amarillo Texas Local News - May 21, 2026

Amarillo Texas Local News Breaking news: City Council to Vote on Water Sale for World's Largest AI Data Center The Amarillo City Council is scheduled to make a final vote on October 28 regarding whether to sell Fermi America up to 5.5 million gallons of water per day for cooling the world's largest AI data center planned near the Pantex plant in Carson County [1] [https://abc7amarillo.com/news/local/city-of-amarillo-launches-webpage-about-new-ai-data-center-coming-to-panhandle-fermi-america-pantex-texas-tech-former-governor-rick-perry-water-sell-ogallala-aquifer]. The City of Amarillo recently launched a dedicated webpage to promote transparency about the project, which is a partnership between Fermi America and Texas Tech University System [2] [https://abc7amarillo.com/newsletter-daily/protesters-raise-water-concerns-over-worlds-largest-ai-data-center-in-texas-fermi-america-texas-tech-potter-county-courthouse-madison-boyle-amarillo-minority-coalition-groundwater-ogallala-aquifer-ashlyn-major-mayor-cole-stanley]. The Advanced Energy and Intelligence Campus will be established on a 5,800-acre site with 18 million square feet of artificial intelligence data centers [3] [https://www.myhighplains.com/energy-crossroads/texas-tech-university-system-fermi-america-announce-ai-intelligence-energy-campus-near-amarillo]. Community members protested at the old Potter County Courthouse on Saturday, voicing concerns about the impact on local water supplies, particularly the Ogallala Aquifer, which is already depleting [4] [https://abc7amarillo.com/news/local/protesters-raise-water-concerns-over-worlds-largest-ai-data-center-in-texas-fermi-america-texas-tech-potter-county-courthouse-madison-boyle-amarillo-minority-coalition-groundwater-ogallala-aquifer-ashlyn-major-mayor-cole-stanley]. Madison Boyle with the Amarillo Minority Coalition questioned why groundwater that farmers could use for agriculture is being allocated for an AI data center [4] [https://abc7amarillo.com/news/local/protesters-raise-water-concerns-over-worlds-largest-ai-data-center-in-texas-fermi-america-texas-tech-potter-county-courthouse-madison-boyle-amarillo-minority-coalition-groundwater-ogallala-aquifer-ashlyn-major-mayor-cole-stanley]. Mayor Cole Stanley stated the city will continue communicating to constituents as they learn more about how the project can benefit the community while protecting natural resources [4] [https://abc7amarillo.com/news/local/protesters-raise-water-concerns-over-worlds-largest-ai-data-center-in-texas-fermi-america-texas-tech-potter-county-courthouse-madison-boyle-amarillo-minority-coalition-groundwater-ogallala-aquifer-ashlyn-major-mayor-cole-stanley]. Weather: Thunderstorm Activity Expected Through End of Week Amarillo residents should prepare for changing weather conditions over the next several days. Currently, the area is experiencing mostly cloudy conditions with temperatures around 65° [1] [https://abc7amarillo.com/news/local/city-of-amarillo-launches-webpage-about-new-ai-data-center-coming-to-panhandle-fermi-america-pantex-texas-tech-former-governor-rick-perry-water-sell-ogallala-aquifer]. Thursday forecasts show isolated thunderstorms with a high of 74°, while Friday is expected to see thunderstorms late in the day with temperatures reaching 86° [1] [https://abc7amarillo.com/news/local/city-of-amarillo-launches-webpage-about-new-ai-data-center-coming-to-panhandle-fermi-america-pantex-texas-tech-former-governor-rick-perry-water-sell-ogallala-aquifer]. Residents are advised to stay informed about weather updates and have emergency preparation plans in place as storm systems move through the region. Events: City Council Meeting - Water Sale Decision Date: October 28 Location: Amarillo City Council Chambers Time: To be announced Importance: This meeting will determine whether the city will sell up to 5.5 million gallons of water per day to Fermi America for the AI data center project. Residents are encouraged to attend and participate in public discussions regarding this significant decision that could impact local water resources for generations [1] [https://abc7amarillo.com/news/local/city-of-amarillo-launches-webpage-about-new-ai-data-center-coming-to-panhandle-fermi-america-pantex-texas-tech-former-governor-rick-perry-water-sell-ogallala-aquifer]https://abc7amarillo.com/newsletter-daily/protesters-raise-water-concerns-over-worlds-largest-ai-data-center-in-texas-fermi-america-texas-tech-potter-county-courthouse-madison-boyle-amarillo-minority-coalition-groundwater-ogallala-aquifer-ashlyn-major-mayor-cole-stanley