A huge storm system crossing the U.S. threatens to unleash tornadoes Friday in the Mississippi Valley, blizzards in the northern Plains and dry, gusty conditions in Texas and Oklahoma that pose a high risk of wildfires.

Wildfires destroyed more than 50 homes in the Stillwater area Friday, according to an early assessment by the Stillwater Fire Department. Fire Chief Terry Essary said he believes they will learn of more when they are able to get into areas that were obstructed from view Friday night.

The Ides of March became even more notorious after William Shakespeare wrote the play, “Julius Caesar.” Wildfires swept through several parts of Oklahoma on Friday as hurricane-force winds fueled fast-moving flames,