Iowa – Snowflakes drift sideways across the Mississippi River this morning as wind scours exposed pavement and open bridges. Visibility tightens quickly inside passing snow showers, and even light bursts can blur lane markings within minutes. Winter is active again across the Quad Cities, and conditions may change fast today.
The National Weather Service reports scattered snow showers developing this afternoon across eastern Iowa and western Illinois. Brief visibility reductions under one mile are possible, with a 30 percent chance of snow squalls. Wind gusts may reach 35 mph, creating blowing snow and slick travel, especially on elevated roadways and river crossings.
In Davenport, Rock Island, Moline, and Bettendorf, drivers along I-80, I-74, and U.S. 61 should expect sudden slowdowns during heavier snow bursts. Accumulations stay light, but impacts matter more than totals. Roads can flash-freeze later tonight as temperatures fall into the teens and wind chills drop below zero.
Saturday brings quieter weather with sunshine, but the cold deepens. Afternoon highs struggle near 18 degrees, and wind chills hover near zero. Sunday improves slightly, topping out in the mid-20s under partly sunny skies, though snow chances return late Sunday night.
By MLK Day Monday, the Arctic air settles in. Highs reach only the low teens, and overnight wind chills may plunge 20 to 25 degrees below zero, especially near and north of I-80. Prolonged exposure becomes dangerous, and vehicles may struggle to start in the cold.
Looking ahead, dry weather continues early next week, but winter remains firmly in control. Plan extra travel time today, secure loose items before winds increase, and dress in layers through the holiday period. Watch for icy patches after sunset and during early morning hours.
Five-Day Outlook for the Quad Cities (IA–IL)
Today: Snow showers possible, windy, high near 36
Saturday: Partly sunny, colder, high near 18
Sunday: Partly sunny, high near 24
MLK Day Monday: Mostly sunny, very cold, high near 12
Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 24
