Quad Cities, Iowa – Parts of eastern Iowa and northwest Illinois may see isolated severe thunderstorms overnight and into Thursday afternoon, with the highest risk north of Interstate 80.
According to the National Weather Service in the Quad Cities, there’s a 20–40% chance of storms developing after midnight Wednesday and again late Thursday. While most storms are expected to remain isolated, the strongest could produce quarter-size hail, gusty winds strong enough to down branches, and frequent lightning.
Cities including Dubuque, Clinton, and Freeport could see storm activity beginning early Thursday, while the threat remains lower south of I-80. Any storms that do form may intensify quickly, though the overall confidence in severe weather remains low at this time.
Residents are urged to have multiple ways to receive alerts overnight, especially with outdoor events and travel plans leading into the holiday weekend. If thunder is heard, it’s safest to head indoors immediately.
Severe threat levels remain low (Level 1 of 5), but conditions could change rapidly. The next update from the NWS is expected early Thursday morning.
