Assistant Organizational Officer Cory Law provided the following information from the National Weather Service of the Quad Cities regarding a multi-faceted storm this afternoon:
- Unseasonably warm temperatures, breezy southerly winds, and dry antecedent conditions will favor a critical fire danger today south of Highway 34. With that, there’s a Red Flag Warning in effect this afternoon for counties along a line from Memphis, MO to Macomb, IL.
- Marginal Risk (level 1/5) for severe weather early mid-morning, highlighting the potential for elevated thunderstorms producing hail. Later today, the Slight Risk (level 2/5) has been expanded westward for the afternoon thunderstorm activity, with an introduction of an Enhanced Risk (level 3/5) for our far east. All hazards are possible this afternoon.
- Rain will transition to snow on the back end of the system, with the potential for some to see 1-2″. The main impact from the snow will be reduced visibility due to heavy snowfall and strong winds.
- Very strong winds are expected today, with a Wind Advisory in effect for the whole area, phasing in the area from west to east through the day. Gusts upwards 45-55 mph will be possible.
- Severe storm threat this afternoon, especially just west of the Mississippi and points eastward (includes some locations in Illinois near school dismissal time).
- Winds increase markedly late day and this evening from the north.
- Rain will change to snow in tandem with the strongest winds resulting in probably some places seeing sharply reduced visibilities tonight.
Visit weather.gov/quadcities for up to date information as the situation develops and ready.gov/severe-weather for preparedness and response information.
