Quad Cities, IA/IL – Drivers across eastern Iowa and western Illinois should prepare for rapidly changing road conditions today as scattered snow showers and possible snow squalls move through the region into this evening.
According to the National Weather Service Quad Cities, snow showers will develop this afternoon and continue into the evening hours, accompanied by northwest winds that could gust up to 35 mph in stronger cells. While overall snow accumulation is expected to remain light, brief bursts of snow could sharply reduce visibility in a matter of seconds.
Forecasters say any snow squalls that form may produce localized accumulations up to one inch, especially on untreated roads, creating temporary slushy or slick spots. The biggest concern is not snowfall totals, but the sudden drop in visibility, which can be especially dangerous for drivers traveling at highway speeds.
The affected area includes the Quad Cities region, spanning Scott, Rock Island, Clinton, and surrounding counties, with impacts possible along major travel routes including I-80, I-74, and U.S. Highway 61. Evening commuters are advised to remain alert for rapidly deteriorating conditions.
Weather officials recommend allowing extra travel time, checking road conditions before heading out, and slowing down immediately if visibility drops. In Illinois, travelers can monitor conditions at gettingaroundillinois.com, while Iowa road updates are available through 511ia.org.
Snow squalls are typically short-lived but can be intense, often catching drivers off guard. Conditions may improve quickly after a squall passes, but multiple rounds are possible through the evening hours.
Residents are encouraged to stay weather-aware and monitor local alerts as conditions evolve.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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