Illinois weather turns restless as gray skies thicken over the Quad Cities. Damp pavement, rising winds, and a sharp temperature drop signal a fast-changing winter pattern moving in today.
According to the National Weather Service, a Hazardous Weather Outlook is in place for north-central Illinois and eastern Iowa, including Davenport, Rock Island, Moline, and Bettendorf. Southerly winds may gust up to 35 mph today, increasing through the evening. By Thursday, a stronger storm system brings wind gusts exceeding 40 mph, followed by colder air.
Rain arrives later today and continues into Thursday. As temperatures fall Thursday afternoon and evening, rain may briefly change to snow, especially after sunset. While accumulation looks light, the timing raises concern. Refreezing moisture could create slick roads and reduced visibility, particularly on I-80, I-74, and Uiver Drive during the evening commute.
Drivers should plan extra time and stay alert for sudden wind gusts. High-profile vehicles may feel strong crosswinds on exposed roadways. Secure holiday decorations and trash bins early. Tree limbs could snap, and isolated power outages remain possible.
Behind the system, colder air settles in quickly. Thursday night lows drop near 12 degrees, allowing untreated roads to ice over. Friday stays dry but cold, with sunshine and highs near 32 degrees. This brief calm may offer a better window for regional travel.
Looking ahead to the Christmas travel weekend, temperatures moderate slightly. Saturday climbs near 43 degrees under partly sunny skies. Sunday cools again, with highs near 31 degrees and quiet weather expected for now. Meteorologists note this pattern as an early winter transition, with more active systems possible into next week.
Five-Day Outlook for the Quad Cities
- Today: Partly sunny, breezy later, high near 34
- Thursday: Rain, windy, late snow chance, high near 45
- Friday: Mostly sunny, colder, high near 32
- Saturday: Partly sunny, milder, high near 43
- Sunday: Mostly sunny, colder, high near 31
