Dangerous Cold Front Sweeps Through Oklahoma

High winds, wildfire risk, and plummeting temperatures expected across the state.

Mar. 15, 2026 at 3:53pm

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A major cold front is barreling through Oklahoma on Sunday, bringing high winds up to 65 mph, dry conditions, and a critical wildfire risk for much of the state. Temperatures are expected to drop significantly, from the 60s in the morning to the 40s by evening.

Why it matters

This severe weather system poses a serious threat to public safety in Oklahoma, with the potential for widespread power outages, property damage, and devastating wildfires. The rapid temperature drop and high winds could also disrupt transportation and daily life for residents.

The details

The National Weather Service has issued a red flag warning from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, as well as a high wind warning for much of western and central Oklahoma through 7 p.m. The strong winds and dry conditions create a critical wildfire risk, especially in southwestern Oklahoma. The fire danger will lessen on Monday but increase again on Tuesday.

  • The cold front is expected to move through Oklahoma on Sunday, March 15, 2026.
  • Wind gusts up to 65 mph are possible in western Oklahoma and gusts up to 60 mph are possible in central Oklahoma on Sunday.
  • Temperatures are forecast to drop from the 60s in the morning to the 40s by evening on Sunday.
  • The red flag warning and high wind warning are in effect from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday.
  • The fire risk will lessen on Monday, March 16, 2026, but increase again on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.

The players

KOCO 5 Meteorologist Mikayla Smith

The KOCO 5 meteorologist who provided the weather forecast and details about the incoming cold front and high-risk conditions.

KOCO 5 Chief Meteorologist Damon Lane

The chief meteorologist at KOCO 5 who has led the station's weather team, which has been certified by WeatheRate as providing the Most Accurate Forecast in Oklahoma City for 14 consecutive years.

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What they’re saying

“There is a red flag warning from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday as strong winds accompany the cold front. A high wind warning has also been issued for much of western and central Oklahoma through 7 p.m. Sunday.”

— Mikayla Smith, KOCO 5 Meteorologist (koco.com)

What’s next

The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on the cold front, wind speeds, and wildfire risk throughout the day on Sunday.

The takeaway

This severe weather event highlights the importance of Oklahomans being prepared for rapidly changing and potentially dangerous conditions, including having emergency plans, supplies, and staying vigilant about fire risks during high-wind events.