Duluth, Minnesota – Drivers along Highway 61 and I-35 have hours to prepare before wind gusts up to 55 mph sweep the North Shore by 6 p.m. Friday, followed by a sharp temperature crash that could freeze untreated roads overnight.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, a stout cold front will push through Friday afternoon and evening, shifting winds to the west and northwest with widespread gusts over 40 mph. Coastal sections of Lake Superior, including areas along Highway 61 from Duluth to Two Harbors and Silver Bay, could see gusts near 55 mph. Temperatures will fall quickly behind the front, dropping from the upper 30s and low 40s Friday afternoon into the teens by early Saturday.
The rapid cooldown will impact northeastern Minnesota, including Hibbing, Ely, International Falls and Brainerd. Blowing snow is possible in open areas, especially where fresh snow cover exists, briefly lowering visibility on US-53 and rural stretches of Highway 2.
In Duluth, elevated sections of I-35 and the Blatnik Bridge may experience sudden crosswinds during the evening commute. As temperatures plunge overnight, any standing water could refreeze, creating icy patches before daybreak Saturday.
By Saturday night, air temperatures are projected to fall between -5°F and -15°F across the region, driving wind chills well below zero. Residents should secure loose outdoor items, use caution on north-south roadways exposed to crosswinds, and prepare vehicles for subzero starts.
Colder-than-normal conditions will persist through the weekend, with another gradual warmup possible early next week. Additional advisories may be issued as wind and temperature trends become clearer.
