Duluth, Minnesota – Light snow and freezing drizzle are expected to move into northeast Minnesota and northwest Wisconsin after sunset Thursday, creating slick travel conditions for the Thursday evening and Friday morning commutes.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, mixed winter precipitation will develop shortly after sunset, with the most impactful period expected during the evening hours. Light snow mixed with drizzle or freezing drizzle may lead to slick spots on untreated roads, bridges, and overpasses.
Snowfall totals are expected to remain under one inch for most locations, though up to 3 inches of snow is possible in northern Iron County, particularly near the higher terrain. In addition to snow, the best chance for a glaze of ice—up to a few hundredths of an inch—extends across east-central Minnesota and parts of northwest Wisconsin.
The mixed precipitation is forecast to gradually transition to mainly snow overnight, with lingering light snow possible into Friday morning. While accumulations will be light, even small amounts of ice can significantly impact road conditions.
Major travel routes that could be affected include Interstate 35 near Duluth, U.S. Highway 53 through the Iron Range, Minnesota Highway 61 along the North Shore, and U.S. Highway 2 near Superior, Wisconsin. Commuters traveling during the evening or early morning hours should plan for slower speeds and increased stopping distances.
The National Weather Service advises motorists to allow extra travel time and use caution, especially in areas where freezing drizzle develops before road treatments can be applied. Visibility reductions are expected to be limited, but localized slick spots may be difficult to detect.
Conditions are expected to gradually improve later Friday as precipitation tapers off. Travelers are encouraged to monitor updated forecasts and check local road conditions before heading out.
