Des Moines, Iowa – Wind gusts up to 50 mph combined with humidity as low as 13 percent will create extreme fire danger across central Iowa Wednesday, threatening areas along Interstate 80, Interstate 35 and Interstate 235 during peak travel hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, a Red Flag Warning is in effect from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday, while a Wind Advisory runs from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Strong west winds will frequently gust between 40 and 50 mph, and relative humidity will drop between 13 and 25 percent, creating ideal conditions for rapid fire growth.
Communities including Des Moines, Ames, Fort Dodge, Carroll and Atlantic are under the warning. Open fields along I-80 and I-35 are especially vulnerable, where dormant grasses can ignite quickly and spread flames across ditches and into nearby neighborhoods. Along I-29 near Council Bluffs, strong crosswinds may also impact high-profile vehicles.
Officials urge residents to avoid outdoor burning, postpone any activities that could create sparks and secure trailer chains to prevent roadside ignition. Even small fires can grow out of control within minutes under these conditions.
The most critical window for fire spread will be late morning through early evening when winds peak and humidity bottoms out. The Red Flag Warning expires at 7 p.m., but elevated fire danger may persist if dry and windy conditions continue later this week.
