Grand Marais, Minnesota – Travel along Minnesota’s North Shore could become extremely difficult within hours Thursday as heavy snow and strong winds slam the region, creating slushy, snow-covered roads and reduced visibility.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, a Winter Storm Warning is in effect from 1 a.m. Thursday through 7 a.m. Friday for southern Lake and Cook counties. Snow and sleet totals between 7 and 10 inches are expected, with wind gusts up to 45 mph. A light glaze of ice may also develop, adding to hazardous conditions.
Communities including Two Harbors, Silver Bay, and Grand Marais will see the heaviest snowfall during the daytime Thursday, impacting travel along Highway 61. Despite temperatures hovering near freezing, snowfall rates could outpace melting, leading to slushy accumulation on roads and reduced traction.
Blowing snow may further limit visibility, especially in open areas along the Lake Superior shoreline, while strong winds could bring down tree branches.
In northwest Wisconsin, including Phillips in Price County, a mix of freezing rain and sleet could produce up to 0.25 inches of ice, increasing the risk of power outages and nearly impassable roads.
Drivers should delay travel if possible and carry emergency supplies if heading out.
Conditions are expected to improve Friday morning, but warnings remain in effect as the storm continues through early morning hours.
