Quad Cities, IA-IL — Thunderstorms moving out of the region Sunday may transition into snow as temperatures drop sharply by evening.
According to the National Weather Service Quad Cities office, a shift to colder air is expected to push southeast across eastern Iowa and northwest Illinois throughout the afternoon and evening. As that colder air arrives, rain associated with earlier thunderstorms could briefly change to snow.
Forecasters say thunderstorms are expected to gradually weaken through the afternoon, though lightning and small hail remain possible until roughly 4 p.m. across parts of the region.
Temperatures are forecast to fall quickly behind the storms, with subfreezing air expected to reach Cedar Rapids and Iowa City between 4–5 p.m. and the Quad Cities between 6–8 p.m., according to the National Weather Service.
As the colder air arrives, north winds will increase significantly, with gusts exceeding 45 mph after 6 p.m.
The combination of falling temperatures, strong winds, and lingering moisture could allow rain to briefly transition into snow, particularly during the evening hours.
The National Weather Service warns that hazardous to dangerous travel conditions may develop across parts of eastern Iowa and northeast Missouri early Sunday evening, especially as temperatures drop below freezing.
Officials recommend allowing extra travel time this afternoon and evening and considering postponing nonessential trips after dark.
When thunder roars, the weather service reminds residents, move indoors immediately.
The changing conditions could also affect late-day commutes and evening travel for students, workers, and weekend travelers across the region.
Travel conditions may continue to evolve into the evening as the colder air spreads southeast.
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