Duluth, Minnesota – Bitter cold air is settling across northeast Minnesota tonight as temperatures plunge well below zero, bringing dangerous wind chills and renewed winter hazards.
According to the U.S. National Weather Service in Duluth, low temperatures tonight are expected to range from -15 to -5 degrees, with colder readings possible in low-lying and inland areas. Any flurries seen this afternoon are expected to end this evening, with skies becoming partly to mostly clear overnight — allowing temperatures to fall rapidly.
The extreme cold may impact travel and daily activities, particularly during the overnight and early morning hours. Vehicles parked outdoors may have difficulty starting, and exposed skin can develop frostbite in a short period of time. Officials advise limiting time outdoors and dressing in warm layers.
Travelers along Interstate 35, U.S. Highway 2, U.S. Highway 53, and Minnesota Highway 61 should be prepared for cold-related issues, especially during late-night and early-morning driving. While road conditions are expected to be mostly dry, cold temperatures can worsen existing icy patches.
Temperatures are forecast to moderate slightly through midweek, with highs reaching the teens Tuesday, upper teens to low 20s Wednesday, and peaking in the low to mid 30s on Thursday. However, a clipper system moving through on Thursday may bring a wintry mix, as temperatures briefly rise above freezing for many areas.
Behind that system, colder air is expected to return on Friday, with decreasing cloud cover and temperatures falling back into the teens and 20s.
Residents, students, and commuters are encouraged to check on vulnerable neighbors, protect pets, and take precautions with heating sources. The National Weather Service advises monitoring forecasts closely as additional winter systems remain possible this week.
