Quad Cities, IA–IL – Heavy, repeated downpours are expected to drench eastern Iowa, western Illinois, and parts of northeast Missouri from Saturday afternoon through Monday, increasing the risk for flash flooding and rising rivers. The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for communities including Cedar Rapids, Davenport, Dubuque, Iowa City, Rock Island, Sterling, and Memphis, MO.
According to the National Weather Service Quad Cities office, storms could produce rainfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour, quickly overwhelming storm drains and swelling creeks. Saturated ground from earlier rains will make runoff more rapid, with rivers such as the Mississippi, Wapsipinicon, and Maquoketa at risk for sharp rises.
Low-lying neighborhoods, rural roads, and underpasses could flood within minutes of the heaviest storms. Emergency managers urge residents to avoid driving through flooded roads, keep drainage areas clear of debris, and move valuables to higher ground.
The heaviest rain is expected in multiple waves, with the threat lingering into Monday afternoon as storms track repeatedly over the same areas. Additional advisories or warnings are likely if flooding develops.
