Rock Island, Illinois –Strong storms are taking aim at northwestern Illinois and southwestern Wisconsin Friday afternoon as a Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect through 7 p.m., threatening localized power outages, wind damage, and heavy rainfall across the region.
According to the Storm Prediction Center, the watch includes Carroll, Henry, Jo Daviess, Mercer, Rock Island, and Whiteside Counties in Illinois and Crawford and Grant Counties in Wisconsin. Storms in this system could bring wind gusts over 60 mph and hail up to one inch in diameter. Flash flooding is possible in low-lying and poorly drained areas, especially along the Mississippi River.
In the Quad Cities and surrounding rural highways, visibility may quickly deteriorate under torrential downpours. Local emergency management agencies are urging residents to secure loose outdoor items, monitor alerts, and avoid unnecessary travel until the storm threat passes.
Short-term power disruptions are possible in Davenport, Moline, and Freeport, where saturated ground and high winds could down trees or snap lines.
Storm activity is expected to taper by 7 p.m., though scattered rain showers may linger into the evening. Additional warnings could follow if conditions intensify.
