Davenport, Iowa – Damaging winds and a brief tornado or two could hit parts of Iowa and Illinois by Wednesday afternoon, prompting a Level 2 severe weather risk across the Quad Cities region and beyond.
According to the National Weather Service Quad Cities office, storms are expected to develop ahead of a cold front and move eastward at about 40 mph. The greatest risk for severe weather will fall between late Wednesday afternoon and early evening, with areas like Sterling, Moline, and Princeton in the higher threat zone. Affected counties include Clinton, Scott, Rock Island, and Whiteside.
The primary concerns include winds over 60 mph, localized downpours, and the possibility of a quick-forming tornado. Although rainfall could be heavy, the fast movement of storms should limit flash flooding. Residents are urged to monitor alerts, especially during commuting hours or outdoor activities.
Officials recommend having multiple ways to receive warnings and identifying a safe place to take shelter if needed. Wednesday’s storm potential stretches across eastern Iowa into northwestern Illinois, and more updates are likely as the system approaches.
Warnings may be expanded or upgraded as confidence increases in storm intensity and track.
