Davenport, Iowa – Any spark along I-80 or I-74 could spread quickly between 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. Monday as southwest wind gusts reach 35 mph and dry vegetation fuels an elevated fire risk across the Quad Cities region.
According to the National Weather Service in the Quad Cities, unseasonably mild temperatures combined with worsening drought conditions and breezy winds will create an increased threat of fire spread from Monday through Wednesday. Gusts of 25 to 35 mph are expected each afternoon, with the strongest winds likely during peak heating hours.
The most vulnerable areas include open fields and grasslands near I-280, US-61 and rural stretches outside Davenport, Bettendorf, Rock Island and Moline. Dry grasses can ignite easily under low humidity and gusty conditions, allowing flames to move rapidly across fields and ditches.
Officials urge residents to avoid or delay outdoor burning through midweek. Sparks from heavy equipment, towing chains dragging on pavement and improperly discarded cigarettes along highways can quickly start roadside fires. Farmers preparing fields should use extra caution during the afternoon hours when winds peak.
Conditions may briefly ease overnight, but elevated fire danger is expected to redevelop each afternoon through Wednesday. Additional advisories could be issued if humidity drops lower or winds exceed current projections.
