Davenport, IA – Severe storms could rapidly intensify by late Friday afternoon, bringing damaging winds and a tornado risk across eastern Iowa and western Illinois during the evening hours.
According to the National Weather Service in the Quad Cities, storms are expected to develop around 5 p.m. Friday and continue through 3 a.m. Saturday, with the highest threat along and west of the Mississippi River. A line of thunderstorms may form quickly, with supercells possible ahead of the main line.
Damaging wind gusts exceeding 70 mph are the primary concern, especially from Cedar Rapids through Iowa City and into the Quad Cities. Large hail, potentially reaching ping-pong ball size, and a few tornadoes are also possible.
Storms will move east-northeast at around 50 mph, meaning conditions could deteriorate quickly with little warning. Areas including Burlington, Moline, Rock Island, and Sterling should be prepared for rapidly changing weather Friday evening.
Residents are urged to have multiple ways to receive warnings, secure outdoor items, and be ready to take shelter quickly. Storm threats will continue into early Saturday, with additional watches or warnings likely as conditions develop.
