Red Flag Warning and Wind Advisory Issued for Central Iowa
Central Iowa is bracing for critical fire weather conditions as the National Weather Service has issued both a Red Flag Warning and a Wind Advisory for Wednesday, .
The Red Flag Warning is in effect from to CST, covering all of central Iowa. The National Weather Service in Des Moines warns that any fires that develop during this period will likely spread rapidly. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged.
According to the National Weather Service, the combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and dry vegetation creates a heightened risk of extreme fire behavior. West winds are expected to range from 25 to 35 mph, with gusts potentially reaching 40 to 50 mph. Relative humidity values are forecast to drop to between 12 and 22 percent.
In addition to the Red Flag Warning, a Wind Advisory is also in effect for northern and portions of central Iowa until CST. The advisory warns of west winds at 25 to 35 mph, with gusts up to 50 mph. These gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects, and there is a possibility of downed tree limbs and isolated power outages.
The National Weather Service advises motorists to use extra caution, particularly those operating high-profile vehicles on north-south highways, as the strong winds may make driving difficult. Residents are encouraged to secure outdoor objects that could be blown away by the wind.
The Red Flag Warning replaces a previously issued Fire Weather Watch. Officials emphasize the importance of being prepared and taking precautions to prevent wildfires during these critical conditions. The warning highlights the potential for rapid fire growth given the current weather patterns and fuel conditions.
The conditions are expected to be particularly dangerous due to the presence of cured fuels – dry vegetation that readily ignites and supports the spread of fire. The combination of these factors creates a significant threat to public safety, and property.
Residents are urged to stay informed about the latest weather updates and heed the warnings issued by the National Weather Service. Further information can be found through official National Weather Service channels.
