Quad Cities, IA – A Red Flag Warning has been issued for Eastern Iowa, Western Illinois, and Northeast Missouri from noon to 6 PM CST Friday due to dangerous fire weather conditions.
According to the National Weather Service in Quad Cities, a combination of strong northwest winds (25-35 mph, gusting to 50 mph), low humidity (as low as 25%), and dry fuels will create an extreme fire risk. Any fire that starts will spread rapidly and be difficult to control.
The warning covers Buchanan, Benton, Linn, Iowa, Johnson, Cedar, Muscatine, Scott, Keokuk, Washington, Louisa, Jefferson, Henry (IA), Des Moines, Van Buren, and Lee counties in Iowa; Rock Island, Henry (IL), Mercer, Henderson, Warren, Hancock, and McDonough counties in Illinois; and Scotland and Clark counties in Missouri.
Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged, as fires could quickly become uncontrollable. Residents should secure loose outdoor items, avoid activities that generate sparks, and have emergency plans in place.
The Red Flag Warning remains in effect until 6 PM CST Friday. Fire crews are on high alert across the region.
