Quad Cities, IL-IA – The coldest air of the season is arriving across eastern Iowa and western Illinois tonight, with dangerously low wind chills expected to make Thursday morning feel brutally cold.
According to the National Weather Service in the Quad Cities, wind chills will fall to between -10°F and -25°F overnight, with the coldest readings expected around daybreak Thursday. Temperatures will remain frigid through Friday morning, with only slight improvement heading into the weekend.
Cities including Davenport, Moline, Cedar Rapids, Clinton, and Dubuque will all experience subzero conditions. Forecasters caution that prolonged exposure to this level of cold can cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 20 to 30 minutes.
Meteorologists recommend wearing multiple layers of warm clothing, including a hat, gloves, and waterproof boots, while limiting time outdoors whenever possible. “If you can, stay indoors during the early morning hours and check on neighbors, older adults, and pets,” the agency advised.
Winds will remain steady at 5–15 mph, adding to the biting chill through Thursday morning. Daytime highs are only expected to reach the single digits and low teens, offering little relief.
By Friday, conditions will moderate slightly, but temperatures will still start the day below zero in many areas. Forecasters expect another night of single-digit lows before a slow warm-up this weekend brings highs back into the upper 20s to low 30s.
The National Weather Service emphasizes that cold weather can be life-threatening without proper precautions. Residents are encouraged to dress warmly, cover exposed skin, and let someone know their travel plans if venturing outdoors.
