Amarillo Texas Local News - March 18, 2026
First 2026 rabies case in Randall County. Potter Co. fire prompts evacuations. Amarillo ranked #1 for economic growth. Free spay/neuter event for Barrio residents.
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Show Notes
Amarillo Texas Local News
Breaking news:
The first rabies case of 2026 has been confirmed in the Texas Panhandle, with a skunk testing positive in Randall County. Health officials are urging residents to ensure pets are vaccinated and to avoid contact with wild animals acting strangely [2]. In Potter County, a fire near Old Mill Road threatened structures and prompted evacuations, with the Potter County Sheriff's Office advising residents to avoid the area . Additionally, the City of Fritch reported an active fire in the Boyd Street area Tuesday, with crews working to contain the blaze . A grass fire in Randall County also destroyed an abandoned dilapidated home, though no injuries were reported .
Weather:
Amarillo is experiencing unseasonably warm temperatures, with the recent hot weekend approaching historic levels for the month of March . Residents should stay hydrated and check on elderly neighbors during the warm spell. With multiple grass fires reported across the region, residents are reminded to avoid outdoor burning and to be cautious with cigarette disposal and other potential ignition sources.
Events:
The Don Harrington Discovery Center continues hosting Spring Break events throughout the week, offering educational activities for families and children [1]. On St. Patrick's Day, The Western Horseman Club invites residents to celebrate with food, drinks, and festivities – a great local venue to test your luck [3]. West Texas A&M University Opera is staging a stripped-down production of Mozart's "Don Giovanni," offering a cultural experience for music lovers in the area [4].
local business:
Google has acquired the energy company behind two Texas Panhandle data centers, signaling continued investment in the region's technology infrastructure [5]. In major economic news, Amarillo has been ranked the number one midsize city in the U.S. for projected economic growth in 2025 by USA Today, citing the city's expanding economy, steady job creation, affordable living, and strategic location at the crossroads of I-40 and I-27 .
school:
West Texas A&M University Opera is set to stage Mozart's "Don Giovanni," showcasing the university's strong performing arts program and providing students with professional-level production experience [4]. The production represents WT's commitment to arts education in the Panhandle region.
The Roundup:
Amarillo Animal Management & Welfare is hosting a Spay/Neuter Voucher Event for Barrio Neighborhood residents at the Wesley Community Center (1615 S Roberts). The program, funded by Amarillo City Council after a successful 2025 pilot, provides free spay and neuter services to pets in designated Recognized Neighborhood Associations to help reduce pet overpopulation and improve animal health . Residents must attend with pets 4 months or older and provide proof of Barrio Neighborhood residency.