Eastern Iowa residents woke up to an early taste of fall this weekend as Burlington tied a decades-old temperature record. The city fell to 42 degrees on Sunday morning, matching the mark first set on September 7, 1956.
Record Cold Confirmed
The National Weather Service in the Quad Cities confirmed Burlington’s reading as an official record-tying low. The morning chill stretched across much of eastern Iowa, making it one of the coldest early September starts in recent memory.
Cool Conditions Across the Region
It wasn’t just Burlington that felt the chill. Communities across southeast Iowa and into western Illinois also saw temperatures dip into the low-to-mid 40s. Along the Mississippi River, Fort Madison and Keokuk reported similar readings, while some rural areas sank even lower.
Impact on Residents and Gardens
The unusual cold meant jackets and sweaters were needed for early risers. Gardeners were also reminded to keep an eye on late-season vegetables and flowers, as cooler nights may cause stress to sensitive plants.
Warmer Days Ahead
The cold air is expected to slide eastward by Monday, allowing temperatures across Iowa to gradually rebound. Highs will climb back into the mid-to-upper 70s by midweek, bringing the region closer to typical September conditions. Still, residents should be ready for a couple more chilly mornings before the warm-up takes hold.
A Hint of Autumn’s Arrival
While this record low doesn’t mark the start of winter, it is a clear sign that autumn is on its way. Crisp mornings, earlier sunsets, and cooler nights are beginning to settle in across the Midwest.
