Quad Cities, IA/IL – Severe thunderstorms are expected to impact eastern Iowa and northwestern Illinois on Wednesday, with the highest risk occurring in the afternoon and early evening hours. Residents are urged to stay weather-aware and monitor updates as conditions develop.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS) Quad Cities, widely scattered thunderstorms could form early Wednesday morning, primarily over eastern Iowa. However, the main severe weather threat is forecasted between 1 p.m. and 7 p.m., when stronger storms are expected to develop. Some of these storms may bring damaging winds, large hail, and isolated tornadoes.
The NWS places much of eastern Iowa, including cities such as Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, and the Quad Cities, under an elevated risk for severe weather. Northwestern Illinois, including areas near Sterling, Peoria, and Macomb, may also experience strong storms later in the day. Confidence remains medium-high for storm development in these regions, though uncertainty exists regarding the extent of their severity.
Residents are advised to monitor local forecasts and have multiple ways to receive weather alerts. If severe storms develop, individuals should seek shelter indoors and avoid outdoor activities. The NWS will continue to provide updates as conditions evolve throughout the day.
