Amarillo Texas Local News - March 19, 2026
APD warns of text scams; I-40 lanes closed for patching; TTUHSC preps for Match Day; Fire near Claude 70% contained.
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Show Notes
Amarillo Texas Local News
Breaking news
The Amarillo Police Department has issued a warning to residents regarding two new scams circulating in the area involving text messages [1]. In traffic news, the left and center lanes of westbound Interstate-40 at Paramount Boulevard are scheduled to be closed from 9 a.m. to noon for patching operations [2]. Additionally, a fire near Claude in Armstrong County has burned approximately 300 acres but is now 70% contained, with roads in the area having reopened [6].
Weather
Specific forecast details for the upcoming week were not available in the provided reports. However, emergency crews have been actively responding to a fire near Claude, indicating environmental conditions that may still pose a risk for brush fires in the region [6]. Residents should remain vigilant regarding local conditions.
Events
Students at the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) School of Medicine are preparing for "Match Day," a significant milestone where medical students discover where they will complete their residency training [3]. This event is crucial for the local healthcare system as it helps determine the future physician workforce in the Panhandle.
local business
Construction is currently underway for the new Horizon Behavioral Health Center in Clovis, which will serve the mental health needs of the broader region [6].
school
TTUHSC Amarillo has received accreditation to launch a general surgery residency program starting July 1, 2026, with the goal of retaining physicians to practice in the Texas Panhandle after graduation [5]. In other academic news, TTUHSC Amarillo was awarded a $50,000 grant from the Harrington Cancer and Health Foundation to support research into circulating tumor cells and cancer metastasis [7]. West Texas A&M University recently recognized faculty members, including Dr. Eric Crosman, associate professor of environmental sciences [4]. In sports, the #7 Childress Lady Cats secured a run-rule victory over River Road, and the Dumas boys soccer team is entering playoffs with a resilient mindset [6].
The Roundup
Amarillo Crime Stoppers is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of three men accused of an assault that occurred earlier this month on the 800 block of S. Polk Street [8]. In other crime-related news, Amarillo police have arrested two individuals in connection with a gift card tampering investigation [7].