Davenport, Iowa – Wind gusts up to 50 mph could send flames racing across dry grasslands by late morning across eastern Iowa and northwest Illinois, prompting a widespread Red Flag Warning through the evening commute.
According to the National Weather Service in the Quad Cities, the warning is in effect from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday for more than 30 counties, including Linn, Johnson, Scott, Muscatine and Dubuque in Iowa, along with Rock Island, Whiteside, Jo Daviess and Henry counties in Illinois. Southwest winds will increase to 20 to 30 mph with gusts as high as 50 mph, while relative humidity drops to around 15 percent.
Communities including Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, Davenport, Dubuque and Moline face extreme fire behavior potential, especially in open agricultural areas and along Interstates 80, 74 and 88. Strong crosswinds could quickly push flames across roadways and toward structures.
Officials strongly discourage outdoor burning and urge residents to avoid welding, secure trailer chains and keep vehicles off dry grass. Even small sparks can ignite fast-moving field fires under these conditions.
Winds ease after sunset, but critical fire danger remains in place until 8 p.m. Additional statements may be issued if dry and windy conditions persist.
