Davenport, Iowa – A sharp cold front moving through the Quad Cities early today is bringing strong winds and dangerous wind chills that will persist through the end of the workweek.
According to the National Weather Service Quad Cities, the cold front is producing wind gusts up to 35 mph, allowing much colder Arctic air to surge into eastern Iowa and western Illinois. As a result, wind chills near -10 degrees are expected throughout the day, even as actual temperatures range between 10 and 20 degrees.
The National Weather Service warns that the cold will not be short-lived. Cold weather is expected to continue through Friday, with the most dangerous conditions occurring during the early morning hours. Forecast guidance shows wind chills approaching -20 degrees Friday morning, particularly before sunrise.
Communities across Davenport, Bettendorf, Moline, Rock Island, and surrounding towns may experience the coldest conditions near major travel routes including Interstate 80, Interstate 74, Interstate 280, and U.S. Route 61. These areas could see reduced comfort for motorists, increased risk of frostbite, and lingering icy conditions on untreated surfaces.
Looking ahead, daytime highs are expected to remain below normal, with highs in the teens Wednesday and Thursday and single-digit lows overnight. Gusty winds may continue at times, compounding the cold and increasing exposure risks for anyone spending extended time outdoors.
Residents are urged to bundle up, limit time outside when possible, and ensure pets and vulnerable populations are adequately protected. Students, early-morning commuters, and outdoor workers may feel the strongest impacts during the morning commute along regional highways.
The National Weather Service advises monitoring updated forecasts as Arctic air remains entrenched across the region through the end of the week.
