Fires sweep across Henry County as dry, windy conditions fuel risk

MT. PLEASANT — A series of fires broke out across Henry County between Jan. 26 and 28, 2025, as unseasonably dry and windy conditions heightened fire risks in the region.

The National Weather Service had issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook for Southeast Iowa, including Henry County, on January 27. The advisory warned of westerly wind gusts between 35 to 45 miles per hour and noted that "the absence of dead fuels and dry air" could make grass fires challenging to extinguish.

Jan. 26

7:08 a.m.: A structure fire occurred in the 200 block of North McCoy Street. The Mount Pleasant Police and Fire Departments responded promptly to the incident.

11:08 a.m.: Another structure fire was reported in the 200 block of East South Street, with both departments again providing swift assistance.

2:51 p.m.: A grass fire ignited in the 1800 block of Franklin Avenue. The Henry County Sheriff's Office (HCSO), Mount Pleasant Fire Department (MPFD), and Wayland Fire and Rescue (WAFR) collaborated to contain the blaze.

Jan. 27

8:39 a.m.: A structure fire was reported in the 200 block of West Washington Street. WAFR responded to the scene.

4:46 p.m.: A grass fire erupted near the intersection of 220th Street and Nebraska Avenue. HCSO and MPFD were dispatched to manage the situation.

5 p.m.: Another grass fire was reported in the 1600 block of Oakland Mills Road. HCSO, MPFD, and the Salem Fire Department (SFD) responded. Due to dry and windy conditions, the fire spread rapidly, leading to temporary lane restrictions on 220th Street as crews worked to extinguish what was described as an "out of control fire."

An update from the Eastern Iowa Fairground Photos social media page highlighted the severity of the situation writing, that the grass fire near Mt. Pleasant, “was one of several grass/brush fires that were handled today in Southeast Iowa.”

Jan. 28

12:27 p.m.: A structure fire occurred on Highway 78. Winfield Fire and Rescue (WIFR) responded to the incident.

1:58 p.m.: A grass fire was reported near Old Highway 34 and white Oak Road. HCSO and MPFD were on the scene to manage the fire.

This recent spate of fires underscores the elevated risk of fire spread during dry and windy conditions, even in winter months. Authorities urge residents to exercise caution, particularly when engaging in activities that could inadvertently start fires.

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources advises against open burning during such conditions and emphasizes the importance of monitoring weather forecasts and adhering to local burn bans.

Additionally, improperly discarded smoking materials can pose significant fire hazards. The State Fire Marshal's Office notes that dropped cigarettes or those improperly disposed of are a leading cause of residential fires. Residents are reminded to ensure cigarettes are fully extinguished and to avoid discarding them from moving vehicles which could lead to ditch fires similar to the one on Jan. 27 on 220th Street.

As Southeast Iowa continues to experience dry and windy conditions, residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and prioritize fire safety to prevent further incidents.

Comments: AnnaMarie.Kruse@southeastiowaunion.com