The early December air over the Mississippi Valley feels heavier this morning — calm now, but carrying the edge of winter on its breath. Clouds will thicken as the day unfolds, setting the stage for another round of rain changing to snow by Wednesday, with colder air sweeping across both sides of the Quad Cities.
According to the National Weather Service in the Quad Cities, a weak storm system will push through Tuesday night into Wednesday, bringing a breezy rain-to-snow mix. Areas near Davenport and Moline could see wet snow by early Wednesday, while temperatures tumble from the mid-30s into the 20s. Although snowfall amounts look light — generally under an inch — the quick freeze may leave slick patches on bridges, ramps, and untreated roads by the morning commute.
By Thursday and Friday, a blast of Arctic air locks in. Highs will hold near 25°F with lows dipping into the single digits Friday night. Gusty northwest winds could push wind chills close to zero during the morning hours. Those heading out for early weekend errands should prepare for biting cold and possible flurries lingering north of I-80.
Meteorologists say the region remains in an active “clipper pattern,” meaning additional light snow chances could return late in the weekend or early next week — part of a larger setup bringing lake-effect and Arctic outbreaks across the Midwest through mid-December.
Five-Day Outlook for Quad Cities (IA/IL)
- Wednesday: Rain changing to snow, high 32°F, low 15°F.
- Thursday: Mostly cloudy with snow chances, high 25°F, low 13°F.
- Friday: Breezy and cold, high 22°F, low 0°F.
- Saturday: Sunny but frigid, high 21°F, low -1°F.
- Sunday: Mostly sunny, high 26°F, low 15°F.
