Red Flag Warning in Effect Due to Extreme Fire Risk

A Red Flag Warning is in effect today due to an extreme risk for fires today.

The National Weather Service has issued the warning for eastern Iowa through 6 pm Monday. 

A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either happening now or will shortly. The combination of dry grass, warm temperatures and strong south winds are producing prime conditions for wildfire growth.

Both the National Weather Service and Delaware County Emergency Management urge Iowans to avoid outdoor burning today. Use extra caution when working outdoors – any spark could cause a fire. And do not carelessly discard cigarettes. 

Officials say any fires will spread rapidly and be very difficult to control in these dangerous situations.

image courtesy of National Weather Service