Texas A&M Forest Service urges Texans to remain wildfire aware as fire potential increases this week
WHO: Texas A&M Forest Service
WHAT: Texas A&M Forest Service is urging Texans to remain wildfire aware as conditions across portions of the state support elevated wildfire potential through March 20.
WHEN: March 16-20, 2026
WHERE: Statewide, with elevated wildfire potential in High Plains, Caprock, western Rolling Plains, Southern Plains, South Texas and the lower Gulf Coast.
WHY: High drying of surface fuels is expected across the western third of Texas, where rainfall over the past week has been limited. Moderate potential for large wildfires with high resistance to control is possible when dry fuels are exposed to very high to extreme fire danger in a strong post-frontal environment.
Today, a cooler but dry post-frontal environment will support elevated to critical fire weather across portions of far South Texas and the lower Gulf Coast. These conditions may support moderate potential for initial attack fires and at least low potential for large wildfires with high resistance to control.
Beginning midweek, strong high pressure aloft will reduce wind speeds but promote abnormally warm and dry conditions across Texas. Temperatures in the low to mid-90s are possible by the end of the week across the western Plains, which could lead to very high rates of drying in surface fuels and lower the threshold of fire weather needed to produce wildfire activity or fires with high resistance to control.
Fuel conditions across portions of the Cross Timbers, Rolling Plains, and eastern Hill Country are beginning to transition with some improvement in herbaceous fuels. These areas may support lower wildfire potential compared with drier regions of the state.
Texas A&M Forest Service encourages Texans to stay aware, stay prepared, and stay informed as conditions change.
For wildfire prevention and preparedness resources, visit: tfsweb.tamu.edu/wildfire-and-