Quad Cities, IL/IA – Residents across the Quad Cities region are being urged to prepare for rapidly changing weather conditions today, as isolated storms this afternoon could intensify into stronger systems by the evening hours.
According to the US National Weather Service Quad Cities office, scattered thunderstorms are expected to develop Thursday afternoon, with a 30% to 50% chance of storms across eastern Iowa and northwest Illinois. While early activity may remain relatively weak, conditions are expected to shift later in the day, increasing the likelihood of severe weather after 4 p.m., especially along and south of the Interstate 80 corridor.
Forecasters say large hail poses the primary threat, with some storms capable of producing severe-sized hailstones. Isolated damaging wind gusts are also possible, with winds potentially reaching up to 45 mph as storms move southeast through the evening hours. The strongest storms are expected between 5 p.m. and 10 p.m., impacting communities including Davenport, Bettendorf, Rock Island, and Moline.
The National Weather Service also noted that lightning will accompany many of the storms, increasing safety concerns for those outdoors. Residents are encouraged to seek shelter immediately when thunder is heard and to remain weather-aware throughout the evening.
Areas farther north may see only isolated and weaker storms earlier in the day, but officials emphasize that conditions could evolve quickly. The risk zone for stronger storms includes southeast Iowa, northeast Missouri, and west-central Illinois.
Emergency management officials recommend securing outdoor items, reviewing severe weather plans, and monitoring local alerts for updates as conditions develop.
Further updates are expected as meteorologists continue to track storm development throughout Thursday.
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