Duluth, Minnesota — Patchy freezing drizzle followed by light snow is creating hazardous travel conditions across the Northland early on New Year’s Eve, prompting a Winter Weather Advisory through 6 a.m.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, freezing drizzle overnight has led to scattered icy roads, particularly on untreated surfaces. As light to moderate snow moves in this morning, driving conditions may continue to worsen before improving later in the day.
Areas affected include Duluth, Two Harbors, Grand Rapids, Hibbing, Virginia, International Falls, Brainerd, Moose Lake, and Hayward, along with surrounding communities. Even light ice can significantly reduce traction, especially on bridges and overpasses.
Roadways likely to be impacted include I-35, US-53, US-2, US-169, MN-33, and MN-194, along with local and secondary roads. Motorists are urged to allow extra travel time, reduce speeds, and increase following distance during early New Year’s Eve travel.
The Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect until 6 a.m., after which conditions are expected to gradually improve as temperatures stabilize and snow tapers off. No significant additional accumulation is expected later today.
Looking ahead to New Year’s Day (Thursday), colder but quieter weather is expected, with no widespread precipitation anticipated across the region. Any lingering moisture may refreeze overnight, so early-morning travelers should remain cautious.
