Iowa–Illinois – Wind scours open fields this morning, pushing loose snow across roads and cutting visibility in seconds. The air feels sharp and metallic, the kind of cold that burns skin fast and turns damp pavement slick without warning.
According to the National Weather Service in the Quad Cities, an Extreme Cold Warning is in effect through Friday morning, followed by an Extreme Cold Watch into Saturday. Wind chills are expected to drop as low as 30 to 35 below zero, creating a life-threatening risk of frostbite in as little as 10 minutes.
Snow showers and brief snow squalls develop at times today, especially north of Highway 30. Gusts may exceed 35 mph, leading to blowing and drifting snow even where totals remain light. South of Highway 30, falling temperatures could turn wet roads icy by evening as flash freezing sets in.
Travel conditions deteriorate quickly in and around Davenport, Moline, Rock Island, and Bettendorf. Portions of I-80, I-74, and area bridges may become hazardous with little notice. Drivers should slow down, increase following distance, and keep headlights on during bursts of snow.
The cold deepens into the weekend. Friday stays bitter with minimal warming. Snow chances increase Saturday afternoon into Saturday night, with additional light accumulations possible. Even small amounts may cause problems due to the extreme cold limiting road treatment effectiveness.
Sunday remains cold but calmer, with lingering snow chances early before gradual improvement. Early next week trends slightly milder, though temperatures stay below seasonal norms.
Residents should dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and check on vulnerable neighbors. Pets should remain indoors, and travel plans should stay flexible as conditions evolve.
How are conditions where you are right now in the Quad Cities?
Five-Day Outlook for the Quad Cities (IA–IL)
- Today: Snow showers, windy, high near 27
- Friday: Mostly sunny, dangerously cold, high near -1
- Saturday: Chance of snow, high near 7
- Sunday: Chance of snow, high near 13
- Monday: Sunny, cold, high near 17
