Quad Cities, Iowa/Illinois – Repeated rounds of thunderstorms could drench eastern Iowa and western Illinois this weekend, raising concerns for flash flooding and renewed river flooding from Friday night through Sunday.
According to the National Weather Service in the Quad Cities, a slight risk (Level 2 of 4) for excessive rainfall is in effect, with a 50–60% chance of over an inch of rain accumulating in cities like Burlington, Iowa City, and the Quad Cities by Sunday night. Though rainfall rates aren’t expected to exceed 1 inch per hour, the potential for multiple rounds of storms over the same area could trigger flash flooding—especially in urban zones.
Burlington faces the highest risk, with a 60% chance of heavy rain, followed by Moline, Cedar Rapids, and Iowa City with 50–55% chances. With many rivers already running high, even moderate rain could push some areas back into flood conditions. The Mississippi and Cedar Rivers will be closely monitored for new rises.
Drivers are urged to avoid flooded roads and to heed the message: “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.” Keep phones charged and check alerts frequently. Rain is expected to continue off and on until Sunday night, with updates issued as new warnings develop.