Duluth, Minnesota – Hazardous conditions are expected to develop on western Lake Superior tonight as a cold front moves through the region, triggering a sharp wind shift and increasing risks for mariners and shoreline areas by early Friday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, winds will turn abruptly from the west to the north-northwest overnight. Speeds are expected to increase from 5 to 10 mph this evening to 10 to 20 mph after midnight, with gusts reaching 20 to 30 mph near the Twin Ports by early Friday.
The strongest impacts are expected near Duluth and Superior, where shore-fast ice has already formed near harbor entrances. Increasing winds may expand areas of new ice while also breaking up existing ice, creating unpredictable conditions near the Duluth Ship Canal and Superior Entry. Portions of open water near Park Point could see rapidly building waves overnight.
Officials urge mariners to avoid unnecessary travel through Friday morning, as sudden wind shifts and strengthening gusts can quickly make conditions dangerous, especially near ice edges and harbor mouths. People along the shoreline should stay clear of breaking waves and unstable ice.
Hazardous conditions are expected to persist through Friday morning, and additional marine advisories could be issued if winds strengthen further. Boaters and commercial operators are encouraged to continue monitoring updates from the National Weather Service.
