Quad Cities, Iowa/Illinois – Scattered thunderstorms are intensifying across eastern Iowa and western Illinois this afternoon, bringing threats of penny-size hail, damaging winds, and a brief tornado risk through 7 p.m. Tuesday.
According to the National Weather Service in the Quad Cities, storms developing over Missouri are tracking northeast at 45 mph and could strengthen as they move into southern Iowa and western Illinois. The highest risk zone stretches along and south of U.S. Highway 34, where a short-lived tornado cannot be ruled out.
Cities including the Quad Cities, Burlington, Macomb, and Ottumwa lie in the zone with the greatest severe potential. Wind gusts could reach up to 60 mph, downing branches and disrupting travel. Frequent lightning and heavy downpours may lead to localized flooding during the evening commute.
Travelers should avoid unnecessary driving during active storms and ensure weather alerts are enabled on their mobile devices. Storms will be quick-moving but may train over the same areas, increasing rainfall totals.
The storm threat will taper off after sunset, but additional updates are possible if new cells develop.
