Duluth, Minnesota – Hazardous travel conditions are developing across northeastern Minnesota early Sunday as snow and increasing winds reduce visibility along major routes including Interstate 35, U.S. Highway 53, and Minnesota Highway 61.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, visibility has dropped to between 0.5 and 2 miles across much of north-central Minnesota as snow-covered roadways expand eastward into St. Louis County and eastern Aitkin County. The reduced visibility is associated with snowfall beginning to overspread the region during the overnight hours.
Forecasters report that snowfall rates are expected to increase through the early morning, while southerly wind gusts of 20 to 25 mph develop. This combination is likely to result in patchy blowing snow, particularly in open areas and along exposed roadways. Even where snowfall totals remain modest, blowing snow may lead to sudden visibility reductions for motorists.
Timing of the snow into the Twin Ports area, including Duluth and Superior, is now expected closer to the 3 to 4 a.m. timeframe, slightly later than earlier forecasts. The delay is attributed to drier air in the lower atmosphere slowing the eastward progression of the snow band.
Road condition data from the Minnesota Department of Transportation indicates that many highways across the region are snow-covered, increasing the risk of slick conditions and reduced traction. Officials urge drivers to slow down, increase following distance, and remain alert for rapidly changing visibility, especially during early morning travel.
While conditions are expected to gradually improve later in the day as snowfall tapers, forecasters caution that lingering blowing snow may continue to impact visibility even after snow intensity decreases.
Motorists are encouraged to check current road conditions before traveling and allow extra time to reach their destinations. Winter driving conditions are expected to remain variable through the morning hours across northeastern Minnesota.
