Iowa–Illinois – Wind pushes low clouds across the Mississippi River this morning as mild January air hangs on, for now. Pavement stays dry early, but rain spreads in quickly, darkening roads and signaling a sharper change toward winter by the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service, rain becomes widespread later today across the Quad Cities, with highs climbing into the mid-50s. South winds strengthen through the afternoon, gusting near 30 mph at times. Expect ponding on streets and reduced visibility along I-80, I-74, and Highway 61 during heavier rain.
Rain continues into the evening before tapering overnight. As colder air filters in behind the system, temperatures slide into the upper 30s. Any lingering moisture may cool rapidly, especially on bridges and overpasses. Drivers heading out late should stay alert for slick patches forming quietly.
Friday turns breezy but drier, with partial sunshine and highs in the mid-40s. The break is brief. Friday night brings another temperature drop, setting the stage for a more wintry weekend pattern.
Saturday introduces a chance for light snow, mainly during the day. Accumulations look minor, but highs only reach the upper 30s. As skies clear Saturday night, colder air settles in fast. Lows fall near 19, raising a renewed risk for refreezing on untreated roads.
Sunday feels firmly winterlike. Sunshine returns, but highs struggle near 31. Any leftover moisture or snowmelt may refreeze after sunset, keeping early-morning travel tricky.
Plan slower travel during rain today, watch for slick spots tonight, and prepare vehicles for colder starts this weekend. Seeing rain change or icy patches near you? Let us know what conditions look like around the Quad Cities.
Five-Day Outlook for the Quad Cities, IA–IL
• Today: Rain likely, windy, high near 56.
• Friday: Partly sunny, breezy, high near 46.
• Saturday: Chance of snow, colder, high near 37.
• Sunday: Mostly sunny, cold, high near 31.
• Monday: Sunny and milder, high near 42.
