Iowa–Illinois Weather Alert: Dense Fog Early, Cold Snap Midweek as Thanksgiving Travel Begins

Travelers along I-80 and the Mississippi River should prepare for reduced visibility early, then a brisk, cooler finish.

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Quad Cities, IA–IL – The Mississippi River disappears into a gray haze this morning, as thick fog blankets the region from Davenport to Moline. Drivers are urged to use extra caution through midday—visibility in spots may drop to less than a quarter-mile, especially along I-80, I-74, and rural river valleys.

According to the National Weather Service Quad Cities office, a Dense Fog Advisory remains in effect until noon, followed by a gradual improvement as temperatures rise into the 50s. Later today, light rain may develop before drier air sweeps in from the west.

Tuesday brings one more mild, damp day before winds shift sharply northwest. Gusts up to 25 mph will usher in a brisk, cooler air mass by Wednesday, setting up a calm but chilly Thanksgiving Day. Highs Thursday will hover near 35°F under mostly sunny skies—perfect for parades and travel but brisk for outdoor football traditions.

Looking ahead, the early weekend could feature another quick system, with models hinting at a rain-to-snow mix by Saturday as temperatures flirt with freezing. It’s an early “winter tease” for the Iowa–Illinois border just in time for the holiday rush.

5-Day Outlook:

  • Tuesday: Chance rain, 55°F.
  • Wednesday: Breezy, sunny, 38°F.
  • Thanksgiving Day: Sunny, 35°F.
  • Friday: Mostly cloudy, 33°F.
  • Saturday: Possible rain/snow, 35°F.