Quad Cities Weather Alert: Strong Storms & Possible Tornadoes Tuesday Evening

People across eastern Iowa and western Illinois should be paying close attention to the weather Tuesday afternoon and evening. Meteorologists say the atmosphere could support dangerous severe storms capable of producing tornadoes, giant hail, and damaging winds.

Strong Tornadoes Possible in the Region

Forecast models show thunderstorms developing across Missouri Tuesday afternoon before moving northeast into Illinois and eastern Iowa later in the day.

Weather experts say conditions may allow storms to become supercells—the type of rotating thunderstorms most likely to produce tornadoes. If these storms stay isolated during the early stages, they could strengthen quickly and potentially produce strong tornadoes.

The area with the greatest concern stretches from northeast Missouri through central Illinois and into eastern Iowa.

Cities in the potential path include:

• Peoria
• Bloomington
• Davenport
• Communities along the Mississippi River

Because the Quad Cities sit right in that corridor, residents should stay alert as storms approach Tuesday evening.

Giant Hail and Damaging Winds Also Possible

Tornadoes aren’t the only concern.

The strongest storms could produce hail larger than 2 inches in diameter—about the size of golf balls or bigger. Hail this large can damage vehicles, roofs, and windows.

Storms may also bring wind gusts stronger than 60 mph, which can knock down tree limbs and power lines.

As the evening continues, storms could begin to merge into clusters. When that happens, the main threat can shift from tornadoes to widespread damaging winds across a larger area.

Stay Weather Aware Tuesday Evening

Severe weather setups like this can change quickly. Meteorologists will continue refining the forecast on Tuesday as new data comes in.

Residents across Illinois, eastern Iowa, and northern Missouri are encouraged to:

• Monitor local forecasts throughout the day
• Have multiple ways to receive weather alerts
• Know where to go if a tornado warning is issued

Storm development is expected on Tuesday afternoon, with the greatest risk arriving during the evening hours.