The National Weather Service says the Grassland Fire Danger Index will be in the “Extreme” category today across parts of southwest Iowa and southeast Nebraska. As of 11:30-a.m., that includes Monona, Harrison, Shelby, Pottawattamie, Mills, Montgomery, Fremont and Page Counties.

Extreme Fire Danger means that fires can start quickly, spread furiously, and burn intensely. All fires are potentially serious. All outdoor burning should be avoided in areas with Extreme Fire Danger! South to southwest winds at 15- to 30-mph today, will also bring an “Elevated Fire Danger” risk to the rest of the listening area.