02/27/2026
A Red Flag Warning has been issued by the National US National Weather Service Quad Cities Iowa/Illinois. With this issuance, Des Moines County has been placed under a Burn Ban until further notice. A Red Flag Warning indicates that critical fire weather conditions are occurring or imminent, typically including strong winds, low relative humidity, and very dry vegetation. When these conditions combine, even a small spark can quickly escalate into a fast-moving and dangerous wildfire.
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When a Red Flag Warning is issued, all open burning is prohibited throughout Des Moines County until further notice. This includes brush piles, yard waste, agricultural burns, recreational fires, and any other outdoor burning. We recognize that burning is often a routine and necessary activity for many residents; however, during Red Flag Warning weather conditions, outdoor burning poses a significant threat to homes, farmland, natural areas, and the safety of emergency responders.
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Under Iowa Code Section 100.40, a burn ban proclamation does not prohibit a supervised, controlled burn if a permit has been issued by the Fire Chief of the fire district where the burn will take place. Residents who believe a controlled burn is necessary during a burn ban must first obtain permission from their jurisdictional Fire Chief. Contact information for Fire Chiefs is available on the Des Moines County website at https://www.desmoinescounty.iowa.gov/auditor/licenses/.
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There are several ways for residents to stay informed about active burn bans and weather conditions. Whenever conducting an open burn, residents should notify DESCOM on the non-emergency line at 319-671-7001. Real-time burn ban information can be found on the “Burn Ban Map” maintained by the Iowa State Fire Marshal's Office. Residents are also encouraged to sign up for local alerts, including Red Flag Warnings, through Alert Iowa at https://www.desmoinescounty.iowa.gov/emergency_management/alert_iowa/.
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Des Moines County Emergency Management appreciates the cooperation and vigilance of our community during periods of elevated fire danger. By working together and respecting burn restrictions, we can help prevent devastating fires and keep our neighbors, families, and first responders safe. For additional information, please contact Des Moines County Emergency Management at (319) 208-5660.