...CRITICAL FIRE WEATHER AREA FOR NORTHWEST TEXAS INTO SOUTHWEST OKLAHOMA...
...Synopsis... Elevated to critical fire weather conditions are expected today across the High Plains and southern Plains. Very dry conditions are prevalent across the central CONUS in the wake of a strong frontal passage (dewpoints in the single digits to low teens over the Plains are near/below the 10th percentile for mid-March). Surface high pressure over the southern CONUS will continue to shift east through the day as a lee trough deepens along the High Plains. The resulting pressure gradient winds across the southern Plains and off downslope flow the western slopes of the Rockies will promote elevated to critical fire weather conditions over regions with recent wildfire activity.
...Southern Plains... Forecast guidance continues to show strengthening southwest winds through the afternoon across central TX to central OK as the pressure gradient strengthens with the deepening surface trough along the High Plains. Relative humidity reductions will be most pronounced (and possibly as low as 10-15%) from western TX into southwest OK under the low-level thermal ridge. Model consensus suggests winds through this corridor will increase to 15-20 mph; however, guidance typically under-mixes the boundary layer in dry return flow regimes with higher RH values and weaker winds than actually observed. Based on this, the expectation is that winds under the thermal ridge will likely be sustained near 20 mph, which will increase the probability of sustained critical fire weather conditions. A targeted critical risk area has been introduced across this region.
...Central to southern High Plains... Westerly 15-20 mph winds off the central to southern Rockies will support several areas of elevated fire weather conditions from central and southeast WY southward into West TX. Forecast guidance show reasonably good agreement in RH reductions down to 20% with areas of 15% possible. Solutions that typically over-mix in these regimes (notably the RAP and HRRR) hint that 20-25 mph winds are possible across southeast WY into far northeast CO and parts of the NE Panhandle where active wildfires have been ongoing in recent days. Confidence in sustained critical conditions across this corridor is limited due to spread in guidance and poor ensemble agreement, but given the very dry conditions, observed trends will be monitored for the need for Critical highlights.
..Moore.. 03/17/2026
General Precautions for Fire Weather
Stay Informed: Monitor weather forecasts and fire warnings from official sources like [Local Fire Department, National Weather Service, etc. Have a battery-powered radio in case of power outages.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay close attention to your surroundings and be aware of any signs of fire, such as smoke or unusual fire behavior.
Be Ready to Evacuate
Prepare a "Go Bag": Have a readily accessible bag with essential items in case of evacuation, including:
Water
Non-perishable food
First-aid kit
Medications
Flashlight with extra batteries
Important documents (copies)
Clothing for all weather conditions
Cell phone and charger
Pet supplies (if applicable)
Be Prepared
Create a Wildfire Action Plan: Discuss a wildfire action plan with your family, including evacuation routes and meeting points. Practice your plan regularly.
Prepare your Home
Maintain Your Property:
Clear brush and debris around your home.
Keep lawns and vegetation trimmed.
Ensure your address is clearly visible from the street.
Inspect and maintain outdoor equipment (mowers, chainsaws, etc.) to prevent sparks.
Avoid Activities that Could Spark a Fire:
Refrain from open burning, including campfires and backyard fires.
Be extremely careful with smoking materials.
Avoid using fireworks.
Be cautious when operating machinery that could produce sparks, especially in dry grass or brush.
Ensure vehicles are in good working order, with no dragging parts that could create sparks.
If a Wildfire Threatens Your Area:
Evacuate Immediately: If you are advised to evacuate, do so immediately. Do not wait until the last minute.
Follow Evacuation Routes: Follow designated evacuation routes and do not take shortcuts.
Stay Informed: Listen to official sources for updates and instructions.
If Trapped: If you cannot evacuate, seek shelter in a sturdy building away from vegetation. Close all doors and windows and stay inside until it is safe to leave.
Remember: Wildfires can spread quickly and unexpectedly. Being prepared and taking precautions can significantly reduce your risk. Your safety is your responsibility.
