Duluth, Minnesota – Strong winds up to 55 mph Friday could impact travel across northeastern Minnesota following a sharp cold front.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, west to northwesterly winds will increase Friday afternoon and continue into the overnight hours. Wind gusts greater than 40 mph are likely across much of the region, with coastal areas along the North Shore, including Duluth and Two Harbors near MN-61, potentially seeing gusts around 55 mph.
Temperatures are expected to climb into the upper 30s to mid-40s Friday before the cold front moves through. Behind the front, temperatures will fall quickly Friday night, leading to below-normal readings for the weekend.
By Saturday night, air temperatures between -2 and -20 degrees Fahrenheit are forecast, particularly north of the Iron Range and near International Falls. Wind chills could drop between -10 and -25 degrees.
Drivers along Interstate 35, US-53, and exposed stretches of US-2 should prepare for sudden crosswinds Friday afternoon, especially in open and elevated areas. Blowing or drifting snow may develop in parts of northeast Minnesota and the northern Red River Valley.
The combination of falling temperatures and gusty winds may create rapid changes in road conditions late Friday into early Saturday.
Commuters, freight haulers, and students traveling along I-35 and US-53 should monitor updated forecasts as conditions evolve.
