Davenport, IA – Fires could spread quickly across eastern Iowa and northwest Illinois this afternoon as gusty winds and dry air combine to create elevated fire danger through 7 p.m. Tuesday.
According to the National Weather Service Quad Cities office, south winds will gust up to 25 mph Monday before increasing to 35 mph Tuesday as winds shift from the southwest to northwest. The highest risk window each day runs from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., when low humidity and stronger winds can accelerate fire growth in open fields and grassy areas.
Communities along and south of Interstate 80, including Davenport, Moline, Burlington, and Iowa City, face an increased threat where dry vegetation can ignite easily. Rural areas and farmland are especially vulnerable, with any spark capable of spreading quickly under these conditions.
Officials urge residents to avoid outdoor burning and delay the use of equipment that could create sparks, such as mowers or trailers dragging chains. Discarded cigarettes can also ignite fires in dry grass within minutes.
Conditions remain elevated through Tuesday evening before wetter weather arrives later this week, which may help reduce fire risks. Additional advisories could be issued if winds increase further or humidity drops more than expected.
