DES MOINES, Iowa — There is a high fire danger risk for parts of the state until Thursday, according to the National Weather Service in Des Moines.
A Red Flag Warning is in effect for western and northwestern Iowa until Thursday, the NWS said. These warnings get issued when there are wind gusts over 30 mph and humidity levels less than 25%.
Wednesday and Thursday have all the hallmarks of dangerous fire-weather conditions, the NWS said on X. The forecasted low relative humidity, warmer temperatures and elevated winds are conducive for these conditions, it said
Although a Red Flag Warning sounds a lot like a Burn Ban, the two are a bit different. Red Flag Warnings are issued by the NWS, and Burn Bans are issued by local municipalities like cities or counties.
RELATED: What is a burn ban?
Burning is discouraged and Iowans are asked to be mindful of any activities that could start a fire.
Here are some encouraged precautions to take to avoid starting fires:
- Make sure cigarettes are fully put out before throwing them away.
- Limit the use of firearms during dangerous fire conditions. Firearms can easily create a spark that can cause a fire to spread in dry and windy conditions.
- Resist mowing the lawn. The blades of the lawn mower could spark and create a fire.
- Be aware of driving or idling over patches of grass or pasture. The heat from the vehicle's components can cause a fire to break out.
- Avoid creating any kind of open flames like campfires.
