Quad Cities, IA/IL – Severe thunderstorms are expected to impact eastern Iowa and western Illinois tonight between 6 p.m. and 12 a.m., bringing damaging winds and the potential for isolated tornadoes.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS) Quad Cities, storms will move rapidly at speeds exceeding 60 mph, leaving little time for residents to seek shelter. The primary threats include damaging wind gusts between 60 and 80 mph, capable of structural damage and downing trees, as well as embedded tornadoes.
The NWS has placed much of the region, including Iowa City, Cedar Rapids, the Quad Cities, Burlington, Peoria, and Macomb, under a Level 4 “Moderate Risk” for severe weather. The warning area has expanded both north and west, with a Red Flag Warning in effect due to dry conditions.
Residents are advised to have multiple ways to receive alerts and to be prepared to take shelter immediately if warnings are issued. Due to the fast-moving nature of these storms, conditions could deteriorate quickly.
Stay tuned to local news and weather updates for the latest information as the storm system moves through the region.
