Des Moines, IA – Iowa residents will face near-critical fire weather conditions on Monday as warm temperatures, strong winds, and low humidity increase the risk of fast-spreading fires. A winter storm is also on the horizon, set to impact the state by midweek.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Des Moines, Monday’s temperatures will climb into the upper 60s and 70s, accompanied by southwest winds gusting 25 to 35 mph. Humidity levels are expected to drop as low as 15-25% in the afternoon, creating ideal conditions for fire spread. Officials strongly discourage open burning and advise residents to reschedule any planned burns to prevent uncontrollable fires.
The warm, dry conditions will continue into Tuesday before a significant weather shift occurs. Highs will range from the mid-50s in the northwest to the mid-70s in the southeast under partly to mostly sunny skies. However, a cold front moving into the state late Tuesday night will bring a stark temperature drop and the potential for impactful winter weather by Wednesday.
Residents are urged to stay updated on weather alerts, avoid outdoor burning, and prepare for possible winter storm conditions later in the week.
