An outbreak of wildfires fueled by dry conditions and hurricane-force winds was rapidly spreading across the Texas Panhandle and parts of Oklahoma on Friday, prompting evacuations, wreaking havoc on the roads and leaving thousands without power.

According to KFOR meteorologist Aaron Brackett, the fire and wind threat has increased due to fast winds and dry air. Low visibility was reported just west of Enid. Many towns issued evacuation orders for residents.

The National Weather Service's Storm Prediction Center warned of "near historic" fire conditions in the Plains.