NWS QuadCities (Eastern Iowa and Northwestern Illinois – Quad Cities)

…WINTER STORM WARNING NOW IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM THIS EVENING TO 6 PM CST THURSDAY… …BLIZZARD WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM THURSDAY TO 6 AM CST SATURDAY… 

* WHAT…For the Winter Storm Warning, heavy snow expected. Total snow accumulations of 3 to 6 inches. Northwest winds gusting as high as 40 mph. For the Blizzard Warning, blizzard conditions expected. Northwest winds gusting as high as 50 mph. 

* WHERE…Portions of east central and northeast Iowa. 

* WHEN…For the Winter Storm Warning, from 6 PM this evening to 6 PM CST Thursday. For the Blizzard Warning, from 6 PM Thursday to 6 AM CST Saturday. 

* IMPACTS…Plan on slippery road conditions. Widespread blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility to below a quarter mile at times. The hazardous conditions could impact the morning or evening commute. Gusty winds could bring down tree branches. The dangerously cold wind chills as low as 40 below zero could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes. 

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS…Impacts from the combined effects of the wind and snow are expected. Ground blizzard conditions are expected, even after the falling snow has stopped with occasional whiteouts in open and rural areas. This will be a long duration event, so plan appropriately prior to the start. Plan holiday travel around peak hours of the storm, either before or after impacts.

If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. Travel should be restricted to emergencies only. If you must travel, have a winter survival kit with you. If you get stranded, stay with your vehicle. The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.