Elevated Fire Risk Through Wednesday

There is an elevated fire risk as we head into Wednesday.

The National Weather Service in Quad Cities has issued a Fire Weather Watch for wind and low relative humidity, which is in effect from Wednesday morning through Wednesday evening.

The Iowa Fire Marshal’s Office says burn bans are now posted in several counties statewide, as unseasonable temperatures are soaring into the 60s this week. National Weather Service Meteorologist Kristy Carter says the warm weather, the gusty winds and the dry vegetation make for a dangerous combination.

Warm temperatures combined with dead fuels and southeast winds gusting 25 to 35 mph are producing elevated fire danger conditions. Any fire that develops will spread quickly. The National Weather Service says Iowans should avoid outdoor burning today and follow local official guidance on potential burn bans. Even if you don’t live in one of the counties where a ban is in place, Carter says it would be unwise to try clearing ground cover or torching your trash when the conditions are like this. 

The fire risk should diminish as the week goes on, with colder weather, along with rain and snow chances, in the forecast Thursday night into Friday.

images courtesy of NWS