Galesburg, Illinois – Dry grasses and wind gusts up to 35 mph could send flames racing across open fields by late morning in north central Illinois.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, a Red Flag Warning is in effect from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday for Knox, Stark and Marshall counties. Southwest winds will range from 10 to 20 mph with gusts up to 35 mph, while relative humidity drops as low as 16 percent. Ten-hour fuel moisture levels have fallen below 8 percent, meaning vegetation can ignite easily and burn intensely.
Communities including Galesburg, Toulon and Lacon face the highest risk, especially in rural areas along U.S. 34, Illinois Route 17 and near the Spoon River Valley. Wind-driven flames could quickly cross roadways and threaten outbuildings or farm equipment.
Officials strongly discourage outdoor burning and urge residents to delay welding or debris clearing that could create sparks. Secure trailer chains and avoid parking vehicles on dry grass to prevent accidental ignition.
Conditions improve gradually after sunset, but critical fire danger remains in place until 8 p.m. Additional advisories could follow if dry air lingers into Thursday.
