DAVENPORT, Iowa — Gusty winds and periods of snow are impacting the Quad Cities region Thursday as a strong storm system moves through eastern Iowa and western Illinois, creating hazardous travel conditions before quieter weather settles in ahead of Christmas Eve.
The National Weather Service has issued a wind advisory for much of the area through midnight Thursday. West winds of 20 to 30 mph are expected, with gusts reaching up to 45 mph. Forecasters warn that the strong winds could blow around unsecured objects, down tree limbs and cause isolated power outages. Drivers of high-profile vehicles are urged to use caution, especially on open roadways.
Snow showers are expected to develop between midafternoon and late evening, potentially affecting the evening commute. While snowfall totals are expected to be light, bursts of snow could briefly reduce visibility and create slick spots on untreated roads and bridges. Temperatures are forecast to fall quickly after sunset, allowing any lingering moisture to freeze.
Conditions improve late Thursday night as winds gradually diminish and skies begin to clear. Friday is expected to be mostly sunny but colder, with highs near freezing and wind chills dipping below zero at times in the morning. Friday night will be cold, with lows in the lower 20s.
The weekend brings a modest rebound. Saturday should feature partly sunny skies and highs in the lower 40s, followed by a colder but sunny Sunday with highs near 30. No significant precipitation is expected during the weekend, offering better conditions for holiday travel.
Looking ahead, Christmas Eve falls on Wednesday, and early forecasts suggest a relatively calm and seasonable day across the Quad Cities. High temperatures are projected to reach the mid-40s with mostly cloudy skies and light winds. While forecasts may still change, the overall trend points to dry and manageable weather for holiday preparations and travel.
Residents are encouraged to secure loose outdoor items today and monitor forecasts as the region transitions from today’s stormy conditions into a quieter and more favorable stretch of weather leading up to the holiday.
