Illinois–Iowa – A dull winter sky hangs over the Mississippi River this morning, and roads look mostly wet for now. That calm can be misleading. As colder air settles in later today, light snow and freezing drizzle threaten to turn parts of the Quad Cities slick just as New Year’s travel begins.
According to the National Weather Service in the Quad Cities, patchy light snow and freezing drizzle are expected mainly this evening and tonight, especially across northwest Illinois. While amounts stay light, isolated slick spots may develop quickly on untreated roads, bridges, and overpasses.
Davenport, Rock Island, Moline, and Bettendorf could all see brief periods of wintry precipitation. The greatest concern sits along and north of I-80, where even a thin glaze may slow traffic. Winds pick up at times, adding a sharp chill and briefly reducing visibility during snow showers.
Minor snow accumulations, generally around an inch or less, are possible as the system lingers into New Year’s Day. Any snow that melts during the day may refreeze after sunset, increasing the risk for black ice on side streets and parking lots.
New Year’s Day 2026 turns brighter and colder. Sunshine returns, but highs only reach the mid-20s. Morning travel may still be slick before gradual improvement by afternoon as crews treat roadways.
By Friday, conditions stabilize. Skies stay mostly sunny with highs near 30. The first weekend of 2026 remains quiet but cold, with overnight lows in the teens and daytime highs climbing into the upper 30s by Sunday. Refreezing remains possible after dark.
Drivers should plan extra time tonight, especially on I-80 and elevated roadways. Slow down, watch shaded areas, and stay alert for sudden changes in traction.
Seeing icy patches in your neighborhood? Share what conditions look like across the Quad Cities.
Five Day Outlook for the Quad Cities (IL–IA)
• Today: Chance of snow, high near 39
• Tonight: Light snow or freezing drizzle possible, low near 12
• New Year’s Day: Sunny, cold, high near 26
• Friday: Mostly sunny, high near 30
• Saturday: Mostly sunny, high near 30
