The National Weather Service is warning about heightened fire risk in Iowa, with a red flag warning issued for 27 counties in southwest and central Iowa.
A red flag warning was issued by the National Weather Service in Des Moines at 1:42 p.m. on Thursday, March 26. This warning applies to Crawford, Carroll, Greene, Audubon, Guthrie, Dallas, Polk, Cass, Adair, Madison, Warren, Adams, Union, Clarke, Lucas, Taylor, Ringgold, Decatur and Wayne counties.
The NWS warns: “A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly. A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior. A Fire Weather Watch means that critical fire weather conditions are forecast to occur. Listen for later forecasts and possible Red Flag Warnings.”
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What are NWS meteorologists saying?
At 1:42 p.m., the NWS issued a statement including the following information:
“Critical Fire Weather Conditions Expected Friday and Saturday. Breezy Northwest winds, along with cured fuels and low RH values in the 20s, especially over southwest to west central Iowa Friday afternoon to evening will lead to critical fire weather conditions. Saturday will feature even gustier winds, along with lower RH values, warming temperatures and dry fuels will lead to continued critical fire weather conditions. Burning is not recommended. The National Weather Service in Des Moines has issued a Red Flag Warning, which is in effect from noon to 9 p.m. CDT Friday. A Fire Weather Watch has also been issued. This Fire Weather Watch is in effect from Saturday morning through Saturday evening. AFFECTED AREA, Parts of southwest to west central Iowa. WIND, For Friday, Northwest winds at 10-15 mph, gusting to 20-30 mph. For Saturday, Southwest winds at 20-25 mph, gusting to 30-40 mph. HUMIDITY, For Friday, minimum values of 20-25 percent. For Saturday, minimum values of around 15 percent.
IMPACTS: Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.”
What is a red flag warning?
A Fire Weather Watch or Red Flag Warning is issued when the combination of dry fuels and weather conditions supports extreme fire danger, according to the National Weather Service. Each NWS office creates local criteria for fire weather watches and red flag warnings.
Iowa weather watches and warnings
What should you do during a red flag warning and wildfire prevention tips
Forecasters advise residents under a red flag warning to take extra precautions to prevent wildfires. Follow these steps to reduce the risk of fire on your property and in your community:
Monitor local alerts
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Stay updated with your local wildfire offices, fire departments and emergency management.
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Check air quality forecasts: smoke from nearby wildfires can reduce visibility and cause health issues.
Prepare your home and property
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Water lawns, shrubs and trees if possible.
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Clear dry brush, leaves and other flammable material from around your home.
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Move flammable items (firewood, propane tanks, grills) away from buildings.
Have an emergency kit ready
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Include water, non-perishable food, medications, masks (for smoke), flashlights, batteries, important documents and a first-aid kit.
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Keep vehicles fueled and ready in case of evacuation.
Avoid activities that could start a fire
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Do not burn trash, brush, or use open flames.
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Use grills or smokers only on gravel or paved surfaces.
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Avoid driving over dry grass or brush.
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Ensure chains or metal parts on vehicles aren’t dragging to prevent sparks.
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Be cautious with cigarettes, matches and glass bottles outdoors.
Fire safety if burning is allowed
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Cover burn barrels with a weighted metal lid (holes no larger than 3/4 inch).
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Keep a 10-foot radius clear of flammable material around any fire.
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Extinguish fires completely with water; stir to make sure everything is cold.
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Never leave fires unattended.
Electrical safety
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Report downed utility poles immediately to local officials or your electricity provider.
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Do not approach any potentially energized lines.
Health precautions
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If air quality drops, stay indoors as much as possible.
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Use masks or respirators if you need to go outside.
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This weather report was generated automatically using information from the National Weather Service and a story written and reviewed by an editor.
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This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: What is a red flag warning? NWS issues fire alert in Iowa
