The National Weather Service office in Johnston has issued a special weather statement, advising Perry-area residents of gusty winds and an elevated fire risk Wednesday and Thursday.
West to northwest winds will increase by Wednesday afternoon and into the evening, with gusts exceeding 40 mph for brief periods, especially in western Iowa, the NWS said.
Relative humidity will also fall to low levels in the afternoon, resulting in a high fire danger. Any fires that do develop will be capable of spreading quickly, the NWS said.
On Thursday winds will be nearly as strong, and the fire danger will remain elevated, but relative humidity will be somewhat higher.
Open burning is discouraged, and farmers are urged to be cautious during harvest activities. Gusty winds may also blow around unsecured objects, such as Halloween decorations.
ThePerryNews.com will update this weather story as forecasts evolve.
