Dry conditions spark field fires, red flag warnings

Extremely dry conditions, coupled with wind, have resulted in a number of field fires in North Iowa, like this blaze which broke out Wednesday, Oct. 14, between Clear Lake and Mason City. A Red Flag Warning has been posted statewide for all but a few counties in northwest Iowa. The National Weather Service says the risk of wildfires is high due to strong winds, low humidity and dry vegetation. Farmers need to be especially cautious as they harvest dry crops. Farmers are urged to be very careful about bearings give their equipment frequent breaks to cool off and for clean up.  Forecasters say there’s a chance for some showers this week.-Reporter photo by Chris Barragy.