Davenport, IA — The National Weather Service Quad Cities warns of dangerously cold conditions spreading across eastern Iowa and northwest Illinois beginning Friday night, lasting through Sunday night, with wind chills plummeting to between -20°F and -30°F.
Temperatures are expected to remain in the single digits through the weekend, but strong northwest winds will make it feel much colder. Cities such as Cedar Rapids, Dubuque, and Davenport could see overnight wind chills as low as -25°F to -29°F Saturday and Sunday mornings.
“This level of cold can cause frostbite on exposed skin in under 15 minutes,” forecasters warned. “Stay indoors as much as possible and wear multiple layers if you must go outside.”
The cold snap follows a strong Arctic front pushing through the region late Friday. Daytime highs will struggle to reach 10°F to 15°F, while overnight lows dip below zero. Residents are urged to check on elderly neighbors, bring pets indoors, and ensure home heating systems are functioning properly.
Those traveling should keep emergency cold-weather kits in their vehicles, including blankets, water, and non-perishable food. I-80, I-74, and U.S. 61 could see hazardous conditions, especially if blowing snow persists from earlier systems.
The NWS emphasizes that this will be the coldest stretch of the season so far, with the potential for record-breaking wind chills in parts of eastern Iowa.
Relief is expected early next week as temperatures slowly moderate, but subfreezing conditions will continue into Monday morning.
For updated forecasts, safety tips, and advisories, visit weather.gov/dvn or follow @NWSQuadCities on social media.
