The National Weather Service is warning of dangerous fire conditions across the local area today and into the weekend, including Franklin, Butler, Hardin and Wright counties.
According to the National Weather Service Des Moines, breezy northwest winds, low humidity and dry vegetation will create elevated fire danger across the region through this evening. Winds are expected to reach 15 to 20 miles per hour, with gusts up to 30 miles per hour, while humidity levels drop between 25 and 35 percent.
Forecasters say conditions will worsen Saturday, when a Fire Weather Watch remains in effect for much of Iowa, including north-central counties. Southwest winds are expected to increase to 20 to 25 miles per hour, with gusts up to 40 miles per hour, and humidity could fall to around 15 percent.
Officials warn that any fires that develop could spread rapidly under these conditions. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged, and residents are urged to use caution with anything that could spark a fire, including cigarettes and equipment operating near dry grass.
