DUBUQUE, Iowa — Warm temperatures, gusty winds, and low afternoon humidity will combine to create an elevated risk of fast-spreading fires across Iowa on Friday, October 23, 2026, and the National Weather Service is urging Iowans to use extra caution, particularly in fields where harvest work is underway.

The fire risk will be highest across western and northern Iowa. Southerly winds are expected to build through the day Friday, reaching sustained speeds of 15 to 20 mph with gusts approaching 30 mph in portions of the state. Afternoon relative humidity is forecast to fall to between 30 and 40 percent while temperatures climb into the 70s — a combination that can let a small spark turn into a fast-moving field or grass fire.

Conditions in the Dubuque area are expected to be somewhat less severe, with a mostly sunny Friday, a high near 75 degrees, and south-southeast winds around 10 mph. Even so, dry crops and field residue mean the harvest-season cautions apply locally as well.

With combines and other equipment running across the state, officials say farm machinery is a leading concern. Hot bearings, debris buildup around engines and exhaust systems, and sparks from equipment can ignite dry crop residue, and a fire that starts in a field can spread quickly in gusty winds. Farmers are encouraged to check equipment regularly for debris, watch bearings and other potential ignition points, and keep fire extinguishers in the cab and within reach.

Residents statewide are urged to avoid outdoor burning on Friday. Even a small fire can escape quickly under gusty conditions, and anyone using equipment that can produce sparks or open flames should use extreme caution.

Elevated fire weather concerns may continue into Saturday, October 24, 2026, particularly across northern and western Iowa, before conditions ease.