Davenport, Iowa – Snow is expected to impact the Quad Cities region Sunday afternoon into Sunday night as a strong cold front moves through eastern Iowa and northwest Illinois.
According to the National Weather Service Quad Cities office, rain will change over to snow from west to east Sunday afternoon behind the front. Forecasters say there may be a brief period of wintry mix during the transition as temperatures fall rapidly.
Snow is expected to continue into Sunday night, with light accumulations possible for much of the region. Areas along and north of Interstate 80 have the greatest chance of measurable snowfall. The highest totals are expected along the Highway 20 corridor, where 1 to 2 inches of snow may accumulate.
While snowfall amounts are relatively modest, impacts could still be significant. Strong, gusty northwest winds developing behind the front may lead to blowing and drifting snow, reducing visibility at times, particularly in open and rural areas. Measuring true snowfall totals may be difficult due to wind effects.
Another concern highlighted by the National Weather Service is the potential for a flash freeze. Temperatures are forecast to drop sharply Sunday afternoon and evening, which could cause wet roads to freeze quickly. This may result in rapidly deteriorating travel conditions, especially on untreated roads, bridges, and overpasses.
The Weather Service notes some uncertainty remains regarding the extent of visibility reductions and how quickly temperatures fall following the frontal passage. Residents are encouraged to monitor updated forecasts as timing and impacts become clearer.
Drivers are urged to slow down, allow extra travel time, and be prepared for changing road conditions Sunday evening. Even light snowfall combined with strong winds and falling temperatures may create hazardous travel across the Quad Cities area.
