Quad Cities, Iowa – Accumulating snow and dangerous cold are expected across eastern Iowa, northwest and west-central Illinois, and northeast Missouri, with travel impacts beginning tonight and worsening again this weekend.
According to the National Weather Service Quad Cities, snow will continue through the evening commute and overnight, tapering off after midnight. A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for much of the region, where 2 to 4 inches of snow are expected. The heaviest snowfall is forecast south of a line from Iowa City to Galesburg, Illinois, increasing the likelihood of slick roads and reduced visibility during peak travel hours.
Another round of accumulating snow is likely late Friday night into Saturday, with the potential for several additional inches. Current projections again favor areas south of Interstate 80 for higher snowfall totals, though exact amounts will depend on storm track and timing.
Following the snow, very cold air will move into the region this weekend. The most dangerous conditions are expected late Saturday night into Sunday morning, when wind chills between 20 below and 30 below zero are possible. These conditions significantly increase the risk of frostbite on exposed skin in a short period of time and may strain vehicles, infrastructure, and heating systems.
The Hazardous Weather Outlook covers a wide area including the Quad Cities, Cedar Rapids, Dubuque, Galesburg, and surrounding communities across Iowa, Illinois, and northeast Missouri.
Drivers should allow extra travel time, carry winter emergency supplies, and remain alert for changing road conditions. Young workers, students, and overnight commuters may face the coldest wind chills during early morning travel this weekend.
Spotter activation is not required tonight, though snowfall reports over one inch are welcomed by the National Weather Service.
Additional advisories or warnings may be issued as conditions evolve.
