Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026.
West Texas wildfire danger rises as drought and wind intensify risk
Dry conditions, high winds, and lingering drought are elevating wildfire danger across parts of West Texas, where devastating fires have underscored how quickly blazes can spread. This week, Xcel Energy shut off power to about 1,500 customers across more than a dozen counties to prevent the risk of fire sparked by wind-rattled power lines.
Laura Stevens of the Texas A&M Forest Service joins Texas Standard to explain current conditions and how residents can prepare.
Redrawn Houston congressional district sparks crowded Republican primary
Early voting is underway for Texas’ March primary, including a closely watched race in a redrawn Houston-area district targeted by Republicans. President Trump has endorsed former Harris County judge Alex Mealer, while Gov. Greg Abbott has endorsed state Rep. Briscoe Cain.
Andrew Schneider of Houston Public Media reports on the candidates, endorsements, and what’s at stake.
Texans head to the polls on first day of early voting
Across the state, voters began casting ballots yesterday as early voting opened for the March primary. Hear voices from voters around the state as they highlight their reasons for voting early.
Argentinian beef imports raise concerns among US cattle producers
A new executive order expanding beef imports from Argentina has drawn criticism from American ranchers, who worry about competition, pricing, and long-term impacts on domestic production. Supporters argue the move could help stabilize consumer prices.
Farm Progress reporter Joshua Baethge joins Texas Standard to discuss how the order could affect ranchers, grocery costs, and trade relations.
Rare species discovered in Texas’ deepest underwater cave system
Researchers exploring Phantom Springs Cave near Balmorhea have documented new species in one of North America’s deepest underwater cave systems. The fragile ecosystem, accessible only to specialized cave divers, offers clues about groundwater health and biodiversity in arid West Texas.
Morgan O’Hanlon of Texas Parks & Wildlife Magazine joins Texas Standard to share what scientists are learning.
His memory is fading. This Austin-area woman is trying to keep it alive in a love song.
For one Central Texas couple, Alzheimer’s disease has transformed daily routines, but not their bond.
KUT News’ Matt Largey shares the story of Clyde and Cassandra Loftis of Pflugerville and how music is helping them hold on to love through the progression of the disease.
Mistrial declared in Prairieland ICE detention center shooting case
A federal judge has declared a mistrial in the case of a group accused of attacking the Prairieland ICE detention center, after a defense attorney wore a shirt with a political message in court. The case had drawn national attention amid claims of extremist ties and questions about legal strategy.
Toluwani Osibamowo of KERA News joins the Standard with what led to the mistrial – and what happens next.
