Tornado risk covers the whole region, but installation details vary with soil, lot size and local permit rules. Here's what to keep in mind in each area.
Amarillo
Across Potter and Randall counties, Amarillo homes range from older neighborhoods with detached garages to newer subdivisions with attached two- and three-car garages, which suit garage floor shelters well. Check with the City of Amarillo about permits before installing.
Canyon
South of Amarillo in Randall County and home to West Texas A&M University, Canyon has many family homes and rentals. Renters and landlords considering a shelter should agree on it in writing first. Above-ground units can sometimes be removed later.
Bushland
West of Amarillo along I-40, Bushland's larger rural lots give room for in-ground yard shelters. Keep the shelter close to the house and away from low spots that collect water.
Hereford
Southwest of Amarillo, Hereford is the Deaf Smith County seat. Many homes here have room for either a garage or yard shelter. Ask installers about travel scheduling for out-of-town jobs.
Pampa
Northeast of Amarillo, Pampa is the Gray County seat. Older homes with smaller or detached garages may be better suited to an in-ground yard shelter or a compact above-ground room.
Borger
North of Amarillo in Hutchinson County, Borger homeowners can choose any shelter type. If your garage slab is older or cracked, an installer should check it before recommending an above-ground room.
Dumas
North of Amarillo on US-87/287, Dumas is the Moore County seat. Plan ahead for spring, when demand for installs is often highest.
Elsewhere in the Panhandle?
We also take requests from places like Panhandle, Happy, Fritch, Vega and Claude. Send your ZIP code and we'll see if an installer covers your area.