Davenport, Iowa – A Flood Watch is in effect tonight for more than 25 counties across eastern Iowa and western Illinois, including the Quad Cities and Galesburg, as heavy rainfall from multiple rounds of thunderstorms threatens to cause rising rivers and flooded streets.
According to the National Weather Service offices in Lincoln and the Quad Cities, thunderstorms will continue to bring heavy rain to already saturated ground, with the greatest risk for flooding occurring from Friday afternoon through late tonight.
The alert includes eastern Iowa counties from Dubuque and Johnson to Muscatine and Clinton, as well as west central Illinois areas like Knox, Marshall, and Rock Island.
Key Safety Recommendations:
Avoid Flooded Roads: Residents in Davenport, Iowa City, Moline, and Galesburg should be prepared for rapid rises in creeks and streams, road closures in low-lying areas, and possible basement flooding. Drivers are strongly advised not to drive through water-covered roads, as they may be deeper than they appear.
Prepare for Flash Floods: Be ready to move to higher ground if flood warnings are issued. Urban flash floods and river flooding could strand vehicles and delay emergency services.
Stay Informed: Emergency managers urge everyone to keep cell phones charged and monitor local weather alerts. Flash floods and river flooding could escalate quickly, and new advisories may follow if additional storms develop over the weekend.
Tonight’s storms will mark the second time this week that rain bands have moved through the area, bringing river levels close to spring flood stages in some areas. The situation may worsen if more storms hit over the weekend. Stay updated on local advisories and take necessary precautions to stay safe.
