Davenport, IA – Snow will begin impacting eastern Iowa roads within hours, with bursts of light accumulation expected to create slick travel conditions by the late evening commute Tuesday.
According to the National Weather Service Quad Cities office, a fast-moving clipper system will spread snow across eastern Iowa between 5 p.m. and 11 p.m., reaching the Quad Cities by around 9 to 11 p.m. before exiting toward northwest Illinois after 1 a.m. Wednesday. Snowfall rates could briefly approach 0.5 inches per hour, with most areas picking up 1 to 2 inches by daybreak.
Cities including Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, and Davenport will see the steadiest snow overnight, while Burlington, Ottumwa, and areas into northeast Missouri may see a mix with sleet after midnight, reducing totals slightly. In Illinois, Moline and Sterling can expect snow to taper off between 1 a.m. and 3 a.m., though scattered snow showers may redevelop through 6 a.m.
Untreated roads, especially on bridges and overpasses along I-80, I-74, and US-61, could turn slick quickly as temperatures hover near freezing. Gusty southeast winds after midnight may also lead to minor drifting in open areas.
Drivers should reduce speed, allow extra stopping distance, and check Iowa DOT and Illinois DOT road conditions before heading out. The highest impact window runs from 9 p.m. through 3 a.m., with lingering slick spots possible into the Wednesday morning commute.
