Des Moines, Iowa — Unseasonably warm and windy weather will bring a heightened fire risk across Iowa on Saturday, especially in cropland where dry grasses and topsoil are fueling fast-burning conditions. Temperatures in northern Iowa will climb near 90 degrees, with upper 80s expected elsewhere, raising concerns for near-record warmth.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, winds from the south will gust between 30 and 40 mph Saturday afternoon while relative humidity dips as low as 30 to 40 percent. The combination of warmth, dryness, and strong winds increases the likelihood that any small spark could quickly spread out of control.
Emergency officials urge residents to delay outdoor burning and use extreme caution with farming and lawn equipment, as machinery sparks can ignite grass fires. If a fire begins, it may expand rapidly before crews can respond.
Iowans are advised to limit non-essential outdoor activities that could generate sparks and to keep water sources nearby in case of flare-ups. Fire weather conditions are expected to ease after Saturday night, but continued warmth early next week may keep fields dry.
