MOLINE, Ill. — WQAD's Storm Track 8 team is announcing a Weather Impact Alert as gusty winds and dry conditions have elevated the risk for fires on Tuesday. The Alert lasts until 6 p.m.
The National Weather Service Quad Cities has issued a Red Flag Warning until 6 p.m., Oct. 29. A Red Flag Warning means warm temperatures, low humidity and strong winds have combined to create an increased risk of fire danger, according to NWS.
Highs for Tuesday are expected to reach above 80 degrees with wind gusts as high as 40-45 mph predicted. In addition, much of the News 8 viewing region is still dry due to little rain over the past month.
What to do during a Red Flag Warning
- Avoid burning and adhere to local burn bans. News 8 has compiled a list of active burn bans we have been made aware of. That can be found here.
- NWS said if you are allowed to burn in your area, all burn barrels must have a weighted metal cover placed on top with holes no bigger than three-quarters of an inch.
- Do not throw cigarettes or matches out of moving vehicles as they could spark dry grass on the side of the road.
- Use extra caution with heavy equipment, especially for farmers as they continue to harvest their crops.
- Never leave a fire unattended as sparks or embers can blow into dry areas and quickly ignite.
- Extinguish all outdoor fires fully by drowning with plenty of water and making sure everything is cold to the touch. Dunk charcoal in water until it's cold. Don't throw live charcoal on the ground and leave it.
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