Quad Cities, IA/IL – Hot, unstable air ahead of a cold front could trigger severe thunderstorms across parts of Iowa and northwest Illinois by late Thursday, with Freeport, Sterling, and Peoria under the highest threat for hail, damaging winds, and even tornadoes.
According to the National Weather Service in the Quad Cities, a “cap” in the atmosphere has kept storms from developing so far. But if that cap breaks as models suggest, severe storms could erupt east of the Mississippi River late this afternoon and evening, especially in northern and central Illinois.
The Storm Prediction Center has placed areas like Freeport under a Level 3 (Enhanced) risk, while Peoria and Quad Cities face a Level 2 (Slight) threat. Main hazards include quarter-sized hail, 60 mph winds, cloud-to-ground lightning, and isolated tornadoes. Dubuque, Iowa City, and Cedar Rapids remain under a lower threat level but should still stay weather-aware.
Residents are urged to monitor alerts, have multiple ways to receive warnings, and avoid outdoor activities after 4 p.m. if storms begin to form.
Severe storm potential may linger into early Thursday. Additional watches or warnings could be issued this evening.
