Illinois – Wind rattles signs and dry pavement hums as traffic pushes east toward the river. The air feels raw, and winter’s grip tightens across the Quad Cities as conditions shift quickly today.
Brisk west to northwest winds dominate the region, with gusts reaching 30 to 40 mph at times. These winds peak this afternoon before slowly easing later in the day. A few spotty snow showers may briefly reduce visibility this morning, especially in far northwest Illinois. No accumulation is expected, but drivers could notice sudden bursts of flakes.
Temperatures slide downward through the day, settling into the 20s by late afternoon. It feels colder than the numbers suggest, especially near open stretches of I-80 and along the Mississippi River corridor. Secure loose items and use caution if driving high-profile vehicles.
Attention then turns to a developing winter system late Thursday into Friday. Meteorologists are tracking a storm that may bring periods of light snow to eastern Iowa and northwest Illinois. Current guidance suggests up to an inch or less for areas east of a Cedar Rapids–Fairfield line, including the Quad Cities. The track remains uncertain, so small shifts could change impacts.
Friday stays mostly cloudy and colder, with highs near the upper 30s before colder air returns Friday night. Any snow that falls could melt during the day, then refreeze after sunset. This raises concern for patchy black ice on untreated roads and bridges.
The weekend looks quieter but colder. Saturday highs struggle into the teens, with lows dropping into the single digits. Winter firmly settles in.
Five-Day Outlook for the Quad Cities IA–IL
Thursday: Increasing clouds, high near 30°F
Friday: Mostly cloudy, chance of light snow, high near 37°F
Saturday: Mostly cloudy, high near 16°F
Sunday: Partly sunny, high near 20°F
Monday: Partly sunny, high near 20°F
