The Smokehouse Creek Fire, the largest wildfire in Texas history, is nearing full containment after scorching approximately 1.1 million acres. However, as responders approach the final stretch, officials have issued a warning regarding the potential for "extremely critical fire weather" in the Panhandle region.

As of Wednesday morning at 8 a.m. local time, the Texas A&M Forest Service reported that the Smokehouse Creek Fire is 89% contained, having burned an estimated 1,058,482 acres. Another nearby fire, the Windy Deuce Fire, has spread to over 144,000 acres and is currently 94% contained.

Despite these containment efforts, the danger of further fire spread and the potential for new fires breaking out still loom over the region. The Texas A&M Forest Service emphasized that the fire environment on Tuesday could support the development of large, highly resistant wildfires. They warned of the possibility of a Southern Plains Wildfire outbreak, with fires potentially spreading at rates of 3 to 5 miles per hour, surpassing initial suppression efforts.

The National Weather Service's Amarillo station issued a report on Wednesday, highlighting the "extremely dry" grass conditions and anticipated wind gusts of about 45 miles per hour. With minimum relative humidity set to remain at 10 to 15%, these factors create a high-risk scenario for wildfire outbreaks. The public was strongly advised to refrain from any outdoor activities that could produce sparks or flames.

However, the service noted that Wednesday's fire weather conditions are not expected to be as severe as those witnessed during the wildfires that occurred in late February. While humidity levels will be similar, forecasters predict that wind gusts will be approximately 20 mph slower.

In response to the current situation, the Forest Service and forecasters anticipate a decrease in fire risk as a cold front is expected to move into the area tonight and Thursday.

The devastating fires in the Texas Panhandles come at a significant cost, not just financially for the state, but also for individuals and the agricultural sector. CBS News interviewed a man who, along with his family, lost their entire home in the town of Fritch. They now face the daunting task of rebuilding their lives. Moreover, Texas Agricultural Commissioner Sid Miller revealed that the fires have resulted in the deaths of thousands of heads of cattle, potentially forcing many ranchers and farmers off their land.

In a related development, Xcel Energy, a Minneapolis-based utility company that powers homes across the West and Midwest, disclosed that its facilities may have been involved in an ignition of the Smokehouse Creek fire. However, the company disputes claims of negligence in maintaining and operating its infrastructure.

As efforts to contain the Smokehouse Creek Fire continue, officials remain vigilant in the face of critical fire weather conditions in the Texas Panhandle. The safety and well-being of residents and the prevention of further wildfires remain paramount concerns.