Duluth, Minn. – Residents across north-central Minnesota should prepare for the possibility of severe thunderstorms Friday afternoon and evening, as conditions become favorable for isolated to scattered storms capable of producing damaging winds and large hail.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, the greatest potential for severe weather is expected late Friday afternoon through Friday evening, primarily across north-central Minnesota. The Storm Prediction Center has placed much of the area under a Level 2 out of 5 (Slight Risk) for severe thunderstorms.
Forecasters say the primary threats will be damaging wind gusts of 40 to 70 mph and hail up to ping pong ball size. While the overall tornado risk remains low, an isolated tornado cannot be ruled out. Locally heavy rainfall is also possible in stronger storms.
The highest threat extends across portions of north-central Minnesota, including areas near Bemidji, Grand Rapids, Hibbing and surrounding communities, where thunderstorms are expected to develop and strengthen during the late afternoon before moving east into the evening.
The National Weather Service cautions that there is still uncertainty regarding the exact timing, location and intensity of storms. Forecast details may change as new data becomes available, and residents with outdoor plans should closely monitor updates throughout Friday.
Now is a good time to review severe weather safety plans and ensure you have multiple ways to receive watches and warnings, including Wireless Emergency Alerts, NOAA Weather Radio or trusted weather apps. Additional outlooks, watches or warnings may be issued if confidence increases as the event approaches.
