Duluth, Minnesota – A wintry mix moving into northeast Minnesota and northwest Wisconsin tonight may create slick travel conditions before changing to snow Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, precipitation is expected to begin between 4 and 6 p.m. south of U.S. Highway 2, with arrival delayed until about 7 to 8 p.m. east of U.S. Highway 53 and across northwest Wisconsin.
Forecasters say rain will transition to a wintry mix overnight, with freezing drizzle possible late tonight into early Thursday morning. This phase poses the greatest icing concern, particularly on untreated roads, bridges, and sidewalks.
By Thursday morning, precipitation is expected to transition mainly to snow. The National Weather Service notes there may be a temporary break in precipitation — described as a “dry slot” — from mid-morning into early afternoon.
Snow squalls could then redevelop late Thursday morning through the afternoon, primarily between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. These squalls may briefly reduce visibility and cause rapid changes in road conditions.
The precipitation event is expected to wind down by Thursday afternoon or evening.
Forecasters also note another round of light snow is possible Friday into Saturday, with potential accumulations of 1 to 3 inches focused on northeast Minnesota and the northwest Wisconsin snow belt.
The changing precipitation types and timing may especially affect Thursday commuters and students traveling during the midday and afternoon hours.
