Duluth, MN — Snow-covered roads and reduced visibility are creating hazardous travel conditions across the Duluth area and into northwest Wisconsin early Saturday, adding complications to the busy weekend before Christmas.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, a band of moderate snow was moving quickly east across the Twin Ports and into northwest Wisconsin during the early morning hours of Saturday, December 20. Forecasters reported that road conditions were deteriorating rapidly as snow accumulated.
The Minnesota Department of Transportation confirmed snow-covered conditions along Interstate 35 near Hinckley, with visibility reductions reported as the snow intensified. The National Weather Service warned that visibility could drop to 2 miles or less at times, especially under heavier snow bands.
The snow is expected to continue shifting east through the morning, impacting communities along key travel corridors connecting northeastern Minnesota and northwest Wisconsin. While snowfall rates are not extreme, the steady nature of the snow is enough to create slick roads and difficult driving, particularly during early morning travel hours.
Motorists traveling along I-35, U.S. Highway 2, and regional roads near the Twin Ports are urged to slow down, increase following distance, and allow extra travel time. The combination of snow-covered pavement and reduced visibility could increase the risk of crashes, especially in untreated areas.
Forecasters say conditions should gradually improve later this morning as the snow moves farther east, though residual slick spots may linger into the afternoon. Temperatures will remain cold enough for snow to stick to road surfaces.
With Christmas travel increasing this weekend, officials encourage drivers to check the latest road conditions before heading out and to keep winter emergency supplies in their vehicles.
