Duluth, Minnesota – Travel along the North Shore is becoming nearly impossible at times this morning as heavy snow piles up toward 2 feet near Grand Marais and wind gusts approach 40 mph along Highway 61 through Thursday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, heavy snow will continue north of Duluth through midday Wednesday, with the most intense bands focused from Silver Bay to Grand Marais. Additional snowfall totals of 16 to 26 inches are expected in the hardest-hit North Shore communities, including Lutsen and Tofte. Duluth could see 8 to 12 inches, while inland areas such as Virginia and Grand Rapids range from 4 to 12 inches depending on band placement.
Snowfall rates may exceed 1 inch per hour at times, leading to rapid accumulation on US-61 and steep terrain roads along the shoreline. Blowing and drifting snow will further reduce visibility, especially in open stretches near Two Harbors. MnDOT crews report snow-covered highways and deteriorating conditions through the afternoon commute.
Farther south toward Hinckley and Brainerd, a messy mix of rain and ice is transitioning to snow, creating slushy and slick secondary roads. Conditions remain hazardous into Thursday before tapering off briefly. Another lighter round of snow is expected Friday.
Officials urge residents to delay non-essential travel, carry winter survival kits and check road conditions before heading out. Winter weather impacts will persist through 6 p.m. Thursday, and additional advisories remain possible as bands shift along the North Shore.
