Iowa–Illinois – The Mississippi River sits quiet under a pale sky this morning as winter arrives with a sharp bite. The air stings exposed skin. Frost coats windshields. Thermometers hover near the teens across the Quad Cities, setting a serious tone for the season’s first full day.
According to the National Weather Service office serving the Quad Cities, temperatures recover into the mid-30s later today under bright sun. Calm winds help, but refreezing remains a concern early. Untreated roads, bridges, and ramps can stay slick well after sunrise, especially along I-80, I-74, and river crossings. Slow down and allow extra stopping distance.
Clouds increase tonight as southerly winds return. Lows stay closer to the upper 20s, reducing hard-freeze stress but not eliminating icy patches. Monday turns mostly cloudy and milder, with highs climbing into the mid-40s. That warming trend continues Tuesday and Wednesday, pushing afternoon readings into the lower 50s.
To be fair, no snow or rain is expected through midweek. Still, this quick warm-up after deep cold is an early winter signal. When daytime thaw meets nighttime cooling, flash freezing becomes a real risk on shaded pavement. Watch parking lots and sidewalks during early mornings.
Christmas travel looks favorable across eastern Iowa and western Illinois. Roads should remain dry, and temperatures trend well above freezing. Winds stay light, improving visibility for drivers heading out or returning home.
Winter has announced itself, but it is easing its grip for now. Keep winter kits ready, watch bridges at daybreak, and enjoy the brief mild stretch. How cold did it feel where you stepped outside this morning?
Five-Day Outlook for the Quad Cities (IA–IL)
Today: Sunny, high near 35.
Monday: Mostly cloudy, high near 45.
Tuesday: Partly sunny, high near 46.
Wednesday: Cloudy, high near 52.
Christmas Day: Mostly cloudy, milder, high near 57.
