Powerful Winds and Wildfires Have the Southern Plains on Edge

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by Aimee Ortiz and Amy Graff

February 19, 2026

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Powerful winds and dry conditions have sparked concerns about new wildfires in Oklahoma and Texas, as the Southern Plains face a dangerous combination of weather factors. Unusually warm temperatures, parched vegetation, and strong wind gusts have fueled ongoing fires and created a high risk for additional blazes. Emergency officials are on high alert, with Oklahoma City and Tulsa under critical fire risk due to red flag warnings issued by the National Weather Service. These warnings indicate extreme fire behavior potential, as dry air and low humidity further complicate firefighting efforts. The current weather system has brought strong westerly winds and record-low relative humidities, dropping as low as 15 percent. This combustible mix has led to several new fires breaking out across Oklahoma and the Texas Panhandle. The flames are spreading rapidly through dry, dormant vegetation, making containment challenging for firefighters. Derek Williams, a meteorologist at the Storm Prediction Center, highlighted the severity of these conditions, noting that the combination of strong winds and low humidity creates ideal conditions for extreme fire behavior. The situation is particularly concerning in Oklahoma, where wildfires already burning have the potential to spread quickly and exhibit unpredictable behavior. Forecasters warn that the ongoing dry weather system and shifting winds will further hinder firefighting efforts. The agriculture department has cautioned that these fires could pose significant risks to both communities and ecosystems. With no immediate relief in sight, officials

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/19/2026