Iowa — A sharp cold front sweeps through the Quad Cities today, delivering gusty winds and a noticeable drop in temperatures before snow returns late Thursday night into Friday. While today stays mostly dry, the shift marks the start of a colder, more active stretch of winter weather.
Behind the front, winds turn breezy through the afternoon, pulling cooler air into eastern Iowa and northwest Illinois. Highs reach only the mid-20s to lower 30s, with winds making it feel colder, especially in open areas and along the river. Winds ease this evening, but colder air settles in overnight as temperatures fall into the teens.
Snow chances increase late Thursday night and continue into Friday. According to the National Weather Service in the Quad Cities, 1 to 2 inches of snow are expected across much of the region. While totals remain modest, timing could affect travel as snow develops overnight and lingers into the Friday commute.
Road conditions may deteriorate quickly once snow begins, especially as temperatures remain cold enough for accumulation on untreated surfaces. Bridges, ramps, and side streets are most likely to become slick first. Even light snowfall could lead to slow travel during peak morning hours.
Daytime temperatures rebound only slightly Friday, topping out in the lower to mid-30s, limiting melting and allowing slick spots to persist. Another cold night follows Friday evening, with lows dipping back into the single digits to lower teens.
Drivers should plan extra time and remain alert for changing conditions late Thursday night into Friday. Winter travel impacts are expected to be more about timing and cold pavement than heavy snow.
Conditions gradually improve after Friday, but the chill remains. Winter continues to hold firm across the Quad Cities.
Are roads already feeling slick where you are, or are winds picking up this afternoon? Let us know what conditions look like as colder air and snow move back into the region.
