Illinois weather greets the morning with low clouds, damp air, and fog hugging roadways along the Mississippi River. Headlights glow softly through mist as temperatures hover near 33 degrees across the Quad Cities.
Fog develops early and may turn locally dense, especially toward southeastern Iowa and northeastern Missouri. Visibility can drop suddenly, creating tricky conditions on I-80, I-74, and river crossings. Drivers should slow down and increase following distance through the morning hours.
Light drizzle lingers at times today, keeping pavement wet and slick. Break-up ice jams are possible along the Rock River as temperatures rise slightly, a reminder that winter hazards extend beyond roads. Conditions gradually improve later today as fog thins.
By Wednesday, patchy fog clears early, giving way to partial sunshine. Temperatures climb into the low 50s, offering a brief break from winter’s grip. That calm does not last long. Rain spreads in by Thursday afternoon and becomes steadier Thursday night, increasing the risk of ponding on roads during the evening commute.
Friday stays unsettled with additional rain chances and highs in the mid-40s. Attention then shifts to the weekend. Colder air filters back into eastern Iowa and western Illinois late Friday night. Rain may mix with or change to snow early Saturday. While accumulations appear light, even minor snowfall could impact travel.
This pattern reflects the first full week of January 2026, marked by sharp transitions. Fog, rain, and near-freezing temperatures create prime conditions for slick spots and reduced visibility. Flash freezing remains a concern whenever wet roads cool after sunset.
Planning to travel through the Quad Cities this morning or this weekend? Share what conditions look like where you are.
Five-Day Outlook for the Quad Cities (IA–IL)
- Today: Fog and drizzle early, improving later, high near 46°
- Wednesday: Patchy fog early, mostly sunny, high near 51°
- Thursday: Rain developing, high near 50°
- Friday: Chance of rain, cooler, high near 45°
- Saturday: Chance of snow, colder, high near 35°
