Minnesota wakes to biting wind off Lake Superior and the first signs of a slippery holiday setup as winter weather tightens its grip across the Northland. In Duluth, wet pavement and falling temperatures signal a messy stretch that could snarl Christmas travel and linger into the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from this afternoon through Friday morning. A wintry mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain develops later today, with snow and sleet totals up to one inch and ice accumulation up to a tenth of an inch. Patchy fog and gusty east winds add to reduced visibility.
Travel conditions are expected to deteriorate quickly late today and through the evening. Roads along I-35, U.S. 53, and Highway 2 could turn slick, especially on bridges and untreated surfaces. Drivers should plan for slower travel and allow extra stopping distance through Friday morning.
Conditions improve briefly Friday as precipitation tapers, though lingering slick spots remain possible. Saturday stays mostly cloudy and cold, offering a short break before another round of winter trouble arrives.
Meteorologists are tracking a second system late this weekend. A mix of snow, drizzle, and freezing rain is possible Sunday into Sunday night, accompanied by strong winds. Refreezing after sunset may create new icy stretches, particularly in higher elevations and along exposed roadways.
By Monday, colder air settles in firmly. Blustery winds and scattered snow showers keep wind chills low and travel uncomfortable, even where snow totals remain light. More winter advisories are possible if the weekend system trends colder or wetter.
Holiday travelers should stay weather-aware, check road conditions before leaving, and prepare for changing winter hazards through the weekend. Winter Weather Advisories remain in effect, and additional alerts could be issued as conditions evolve.
