The National Weather Service is warning of high to critical fire danger across parts of Iowa as dry conditions and strong winds continue.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, a combination of low humidity, gusty winds, and dry vegetation is creating conditions where fires can start easily and spread rapidly.
A Red Flag Warning has been issued for portions of the state, meaning critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now or expected shortly.
Winds could gust between 25 to 40 miles per hour, while humidity levels may drop as low as 15 to 25 percent. Officials say that combination significantly increases the risk of fast-moving fires.
Even in areas without a warning, elevated fire danger remains across much of the region, especially along and west of the Mississippi River.
Because of this, outdoor burning is strongly discouraged. Officials are also reminding residents to avoid anything that could create sparks, including improperly discarded cigarettes or equipment use in dry grass.
The National Weather Service says any fire that starts under these conditions can quickly become difficult to control.