Iowa–Illinois — The Mississippi River glides quietly past the Quad Cities this morning, reflecting pale winter light as temperatures sit near 42 degrees. It feels unusually mild for February. A light southwest breeze brushes across bridges and riverfront roads, hinting that winter has loosened its grip, at least for now.
Sunshine takes control today. Highs climb into the upper 40s by afternoon, and that warmth will be noticeable. Jackets unzip. Snow piles slump. Wet pavement develops where meltwater spreads across side streets and parking lots. Drivers should stay alert early and late, when brief refreezing remains possible.
Wednesday leans even warmer. Clear skies push highs toward the mid-40s again, keeping conditions comfortable for midweek travel. Winds ease, and visibility stays excellent along I-80 and I-74. It’s a quiet weather day, but it sets the stage for what follows.
Changes arrive Thursday. Clouds thicken before sunrise, and precipitation develops by morning. A brief rain-snow mix is possible early, especially north of Davenport and Moline, before turning mainly rain by midday. Temperatures hover in the mid-40s, limiting accumulation. Still, slick spots can form during the transition. Plan extra time if you’re commuting during the morning hours.
Friday delivers the payoff. Sunshine returns, and highs approach 49 degrees. That warmth stretches into Valentine’s Day weekend, with Saturday flirting near 50 again. Nights stay cool, so melting by day and freezing after dark remains a concern.
Looking ahead, NOAA’s 6–10 day outlook favors above-normal temperatures across the Midwest. Even with the Great Lakes still heavily frozen, a broader thaw pattern is taking shape into early next week.
Winter isn’t over, but momentum is shifting. Are you seeing signs of spring where you live?
Five-Day Outlook for the Quad Cities (IA–IL)
• Today: Mostly sunny, breezy, high near 47°
• Wednesday: Sunny, calm, high near 46°
• Thursday: Cloudy, rain/snow early then rain, high near 46°
• Friday: Sunny and mild, high near 49°
• Saturday: Mostly sunny, late rain chance, high near 50°
