Quad Cities, IA–IL – A blanket of clouds stretches low over the Mississippi River Valley this morning, signaling the calm before a messy mix of snow and ice sweeps across eastern Iowa and northwest Illinois. The air feels heavy, the kind that often precedes the first steady flakes of December.
According to the National Weather Service in the Quad Cities, a Winter Weather Advisory goes into effect from 6 p.m. Saturday until 6 a.m. Sunday, covering much of Interstate 80 and Highway 20 corridors. Snow will develop by early evening, bringing 1 to 3 inches south of I-80 and 3 to 5 inches north. Some isolated spots could see over 5 inches, especially near Cedar Rapids, Dubuque, and the Highway 20 corridor.
South of the interstate, a glaze of ice may accompany snow, creating slick and hazardous travel conditions on bridges, ramps, and overpasses. Winds will pick up by late evening, potentially causing light drifting snow and brief reductions in visibility.
Drivers should expect slushy roads through early Sunday morning, particularly in open and rural areas. Use caution, reduce speeds, and plan extra time for travel if crossing the river or heading toward major routes like I-80 or Highway 61.
Looking Ahead:
- Sunday: Clearing skies, windy, high near 23°F.
- Monday: Partly sunny, high 24°F, low 15°F.
- Tuesday: Cloudy, high 40°F, rain chance late.
- Wednesday: Rain likely, high 38°F.
- Thursday: Breezy, snow chance, high 25°F.
