Quad Cities, Iowa/Illinois – Drivers and anyone with overnight plans across eastern Iowa and northwest Illinois should stay weather-aware as the threat for strong thunderstorms increases after midnight. While many communities could remain dry, any storm that develops has the potential to produce damaging wind gusts, frequent lightning and torrential rainfall capable of creating ponding on roads before daybreak Monday.
According to the National Weather Service Quad Cities office, shower and thunderstorm chances remain low through much of Sunday afternoon, generally between 5% and 15%, before increasing to 15% to 50% overnight. The greatest potential is expected in portions of northwest Illinois, with the strongest activity most likely from shortly after midnight through early Monday morning. The region remains under a Level 2 of 5 severe thunderstorm risk.
Cities including the Quad Cities, Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, Dubuque, Burlington, Freeport and Sterling could all see isolated storms. Because coverage is expected to be scattered, not everyone will experience severe weather, but any storm that intensifies could bring wind strong enough to down tree limbs, damage fences and cause isolated power outages. Heavy downpours may also reduce visibility and create localized flooding on low-lying roads.
Residents should have multiple ways to receive weather warnings overnight, especially while sleeping. If thunder is heard, move indoors immediately and avoid unnecessary travel during the heaviest rainfall.
Additional updates, watches or warnings may be issued overnight as storms develop and move across the region.
