Rock Island, IL – Residents planning outdoor activities along the Iowa-Illinois border may want to keep a close eye on the forecast Saturday as thunderstorms are expected to develop and could become severe by late afternoon and evening.
According to the National Weather Service Quad Cities office, a Marginal to Slight Risk (Levels 1 and 2 out of 5) for severe weather exists across much of eastern Iowa and western Illinois on Saturday, June 13.
Forecasters said there is a 20% to 40% chance of storms developing in portions of eastern Iowa and northeast Missouri during the morning and early afternoon. Storm coverage is expected to increase significantly later in the day, with a 60% to 80% chance of thunderstorms spreading across the region by evening.
The most likely window for severe weather is between 4 p.m. and 10 p.m.
Damaging wind gusts and large hail are expected to be the primary threats. Heavy downpours and frequent lightning are also possible, creating concerns for those attending outdoor events, camping, boating or spending time at area parks and campgrounds.
The greatest severe weather risk currently stretches from southeast Iowa into west-central Illinois, including areas near Burlington, Macomb and surrounding communities. The Quad Cities region remains under a lower, but still notable, threat level.
Weather officials are encouraging residents to have multiple ways to receive warnings and be prepared to move indoors quickly if thunderstorms develop.
Boaters and campers should review weather forecasts before heading out and identify nearby shelter locations in advance.
While Saturday will not be a complete washout, periods of severe weather could interrupt outdoor plans across parts of the Iowa-Illinois border region during the late afternoon and evening hours.
