Iowa–Illinois – A streak of pale gold washes across the Mississippi River as a gentle south breeze ripples through parking lots and rustles the last thin leaves along the riverfront trails. Pavement stays dry, and the air feels mild for mid-November, but subtle signs of change drift in from the west. Clouds linger far upstream, hinting at the shift coming this weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in the Quad Cities, today begins warm and sunny across Davenport, Bettendorf, Moline, and Rock Island. According to meteorologists, south winds strengthen through the morning, with gusts reaching 20 mph by afternoon. Drivers along I-74 and I-80 may feel brief lateral pushes, especially on bridges over the river. Residents prepping early holiday travel plans or outdoor chores should treat today as the ideal window.
Saturday turns cloudier and cooler as gradual clearing follows a weak disturbance. The front brings gusty winds up to 25 mph, especially across open farm fields southwest of town. While rainfall stays very limited, the wind shift from southwest to northwest signals the start of a more November-like pattern.
Sunday’s sun returns, though temperatures slide. Highs fall more than 15 degrees compared to today’s warmup, bringing a crisp, brisk feel. The real attention, however, turns to early next week.
A stronger system approaches Monday night, carrying a 60 percent chance of rain. Behind it, colder air arrives by Tuesday. Models hint at a “Winter Tease,” with the possibility of a light rain-to-snow changeover early Tuesday. Impacts look low for now, but commuters should watch for colder pockets on elevated ramps and river bridges if temps dip near freezing. This early transition signals a more active period as Thanksgiving nears.
Five-Day Outlook for the Quad Cities (IA/IL):
Fri: 71/57 – Sunny; breezy.
Sat: 69/36 – Clouds early; clearing; gusty winds.
Sun: 52/34 – Sunny; cooler.
Mon: 50/33 – Partly sunny; rain likely late.
Tue: 47/30 – 40% rain; early mix possible.
