Duluth, Minnesota – Thunderstorms are expected to roll through northern Minnesota starting early Thursday, with the strongest storms and heaviest rainfall arriving by Friday afternoon and evening. Drivers and residents from Duluth to Bemidji could face hazardous conditions, including minor road flooding and lightning delays, as a series of weather systems move through the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, a round of general thunderstorms will move into north-central Minnesota Thursday morning, followed by a second wave of strong storms Thursday night. A third round, potentially strong to severe, is expected Friday afternoon and evening, with rainfall totals reaching 1 to 2 inches. Localized flooding is possible, especially in low-lying areas and along highways like U.S. 53 and Minnesota Highway 169.
Communities including Hibbing, Grand Rapids, International Falls, and the Iron Range should prepare for rapidly changing conditions. The storms could disrupt outdoor plans, lead to travel delays, and cause power outages. Emergency management agencies urge residents to avoid flooded roads, secure outdoor items, and have charging plans for mobile devices.
Temperatures will rise into the upper 70s and low 80s by the weekend, adding humidity to the mix. This multi-day event comes amid an otherwise warm July stretch and is similar to the pattern seen last summer.
Thunderstorm chances will taper off by Saturday morning, but additional alerts could be issued if heavy rainfall persists. Stay tuned for updates from the National Weather Service as conditions evolve.
