Iowa and Illinois sit under a hard winter lock as clear skies fail to soften the cold. Breath fogs instantly, pavement creaks, and exposed skin stings within seconds.
A Cold Weather Advisory is in effect for the Quad Cities region, covering eastern Iowa and northwest Illinois, through midday. Wind chills plunge between 20 and 30 degrees below zero, creating dangerous conditions for anyone outdoors. According to the National Weather Service, frostbite can occur on exposed skin in as little as 25 to 30 minutes.
Actual temperatures hover near 1 degree early, with northwest winds near 10 mph driving the bite. Patchy drifting snow lingers south of U.S. Highway 34, though widespread snowfall is not expected. Roads appear mostly dry, but slick spots remain where snowmelt refroze. This is peak season for flash freezing, especially on bridges, ramps, and shaded streets.
Travel remains possible but demands caution. Cold-stressed batteries, stiff steering, and reduced tire pressure become common in this weather. Dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and keep vehicles winter-ready. Limit time outside if possible.
Sunshine helps temperatures recover slightly by afternoon, topping out near 12 degrees. Even then, wind chills remain dangerous. Tonight turns sharply colder again, with lows near -9 degrees and another round of refreezing.
Tuesday brings mostly sunny skies and a modest rebound to around 18 degrees, followed by another cold night near 3 degrees. By Wednesday and Thursday, highs hold in the mid to upper teens. Late week trends point toward gradual moderation, though winter stays firmly in control.
Looking ahead, 6–10 day outlooks show below-normal temperatures lingering across the Midwest, with precipitation chances easing into early February.
For now, plan extra time if traveling, protect pets, and check on neighbors. How cold did it feel when you stepped outside today?
Five-Day Outlook: Quad Cities IA–IL
- Today: Sunny, dangerously cold. High near 12°F
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, very cold. High near 18°F
- Wednesday: Partly sunny. High near 18°F
- Thursday: Mostly sunny. High near 16°F
- Friday: Sunny, slow warming trend. High near 17°F
