Quad Cities, Iowa/Illinois – Above-average temperatures are expected to continue through the end of the week, with a small chance of rain or snow Thursday that could briefly affect travel near major roadways including Interstate 80 and Interstate 74.
According to the National Weather Service Quad Cities office, most of the forecast period will remain dry as mild air persists across eastern Iowa and western Illinois. High temperatures Wednesday are expected to range from 40 to 49 degrees, followed by highs of 43 to 50 degrees Thursday and 48 to 54 degrees Friday. Overnight lows will generally fall into the upper 20s to mid-30s.
The primary weather change arrives Thursday as a fast-moving clipper system passes to the northeast. Forecasters indicate a 20 to 30 percent chance of rain or snow during the day Thursday, with any precipitation likely to be light and short-lived. No significant accumulation has been indicated at this time.
Travel impacts are expected to be limited, though drivers along I-80, I-74, and I-280 should remain alert for brief slick spots if precipitation coincides with cooler evening temperatures. Thursday night lows are forecast to dip into the upper 20s to near 32 degrees, which could allow for patchy refreeze in isolated areas.
Looking ahead to the weekend, conditions trend warmer and dry. Saturday highs are forecast to reach 50 to 54 degrees across much of the Quad Cities region, continuing the above-normal temperature pattern for mid-February.
The National Weather Service emphasized that confidence remains high in the warm trend, while confidence in measurable precipitation Thursday remains low. Residents are encouraged to monitor updated forecasts, especially those commuting during the Thursday evening hours.
The mild stretch may be notable for students, young workers, and commuters who typically face winter driving conditions this time of year.
