Davenport, Iowa – Strong thunderstorms could spark travel disruptions and power issues across eastern Iowa and west-central Illinois this afternoon, especially along and south of Highway 34. The National Weather Service warns that localized damaging winds and intense lightning are the primary hazards tied to today’s fast-moving summer storms.
According to the Quad Cities NWS office, isolated thunderstorms are expected through this evening, with the highest chances concentrated along Highway 34 corridors near Burlington and Galesburg. Rainfall will be brief but heavy, and while widespread hazards are unlikely, today’s conditions may catch drivers off-guard during late-day commutes.
Residents in areas like Muscatine, Monmouth, and Keokuk should stay alert for changing skies. Secure outdoor items and limit travel during active storm periods. Spotter activation is not expected at this time, but conditions can shift rapidly with summer convection.
The rest of the week offers relief. Starting Wednesday, July 2, skies clear and temperatures climb steadily:
- Wednesday: Sunny, high near 89°F
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, high of 90°F
- Friday (July 4th Weekend Begins): Sunny, high of 94°F
- Saturday: 50% chance of thunderstorms, high near 92°F
- Sunday: Scattered storms possible, high around 89°F
Bottom line: After today’s brief storm threat, hot and mostly dry conditions return through the start of the holiday weekend. Still, July 4th celebrations may face interruptions by late Saturday into Sunday — plan accordingly and stay weather-aware.
Warnings remain minimal after tonight, but new advisories could be issued as storm chances return this weekend.
