Iowa wakes up locked in winter’s grip as bitter air presses across the Mississippi River Valley. Streetlights glow over frozen pavement, and every gust cuts sharply through coats and gloves.
Temperatures hover near 9 degrees in the Quad Cities early this morning. Wind chills plunge into the 10 to 20 below zero range, especially near and north of the I-80 corridor. The National Weather Service warns that exposed skin can feel numb quickly. Morning travel feels harsh, even under clear skies.
Clouds thin through the day, allowing some sun, but warmth never arrives. Highs struggle to reach 16 degrees. Winds stay light, yet the cold remains biting. Any moisture on untreated roads can refreeze after sunset. Drivers should watch bridges and ramps in Davenport, Rock Island, and Moline.
Friday brings sunshine but little relief. Afternoon highs again reach the mid-teens, while wind chills stay near 10 below at times. By Friday night, temperatures dip to near 4 degrees, setting the stage for another icy morning.
Saturday offers a brief pause. Sunshine pushes highs closer to 23 degrees, and winds relax. It feels calmer, though still firmly winter. That break does not last long.
By Sunday, clouds increase and snow chances rise to around 30 percent during the afternoon. Temperatures approach 28 degrees, which may allow light snow to turn slushy before sunset. As colder air returns Sunday night, any melting snow could refreeze quickly, creating slick conditions for early Monday travel.
Meteorologists continue monitoring a broader Arctic pattern across the Midwest. With deep cold nearby, even light snow can have outsized impacts.
Plan extra time if traveling this weekend. Dress in layers, limit outdoor exposure, and stay alert for icy patches.
Five-Day Outlook for the Quad Cities (IA–IL)
- Today: Mostly sunny, very cold, high near 16°F
- Friday: Sunny, cold, high near 16°F
- Saturday: Sunny, high near 23°F
- Sunday: Chance of snow, high near 28°F
- Monday: Partly sunny, high near 34°F
