DAVENPORT, Iowa — The air feels sharp and restless across the Mississippi River valley this morning. A faint wisp of mist hovers over the fields near I-80, and dry leaves scatter across driveways as the first real chill of fall begins to settle in. The Quad Cities region is on track for its first frost of the season before week’s end — a clear sign that autumn’s gentler days are fading fast.
According to the National Weather Service in the Quad Cities, Tuesday will turn breezy and cool, with gusts up to 40 mph during the afternoon. Temperatures will reach the mid-50s before winds settle and skies clear late. By Wednesday morning, calm air and radiating heat loss will allow readings to fall into the upper 30s, with patchy frost likely west of the river.
Thursday morning brings the best chance for widespread frost, especially across open fields and sheltered valleys. Lows will dip to near 35°F, with some outlying areas briefly touching the freezing mark. Gardeners should take precautions — cover plants or bring in tender vegetation before sunset Wednesday.
The rest of the week looks bright but brisk. Sunshine dominates Thursday and Friday, though highs will only climb into the upper 50s and low 60s. By Saturday, the region moderates slightly, offering a classic fall weekend — crisp air, golden sunlight, and a hint of early-winter stillness.
The message is clear: Iowa and Illinois are edging toward their first true taste of frost season — and the first fall freeze may not be far behind.
Five-Day Outlook for the Quad Cities (IA/IL):
Tue: 55/40 – Breezy; slight chance of showers.
Wed: 58/36 – Sunny; areas of frost early.
Thu: 58/35 – Clear; frost possible early.
Fri: 62/42 – Mostly sunny; calm.
Sat: 60/47 – Partly cloudy; seasonal.
