Duluth, Minnesota – Drivers along US-61 and I-35 have limited time to prepare before light but steady snow begins after midnight Friday, with up to 6 inches possible along the North Shore and into northwest Wisconsin by early Sunday.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, snowfall will develop around 12 a.m. Friday and continue at times through 6 a.m. Sunday, with the heaviest totals expected just east of the Northland. The most significant accumulation is forecast along the South Shore snowbelt and the Arrowhead, including Grand Portage and Hurley, where totals could reach 4 to 6 inches. Grand Marais may see 3 to 4 inches, while Ashland could pick up 1 to 2 inches.
Snowfall rates will generally remain light, producing fluffy accumulation compared to the heavier system earlier this week. However, even lighter snow can create slick stretches on elevated roadways, especially along US-2, US-53 and MN-61. Duluth, Two Harbors and Silver Bay are expected to see lighter totals under 1 inch, though brief bursts could reduce visibility.
Travel impacts will be most noticeable during overnight and early morning hours when untreated surfaces become snow-covered. Commuters heading into northwest Wisconsin, including Hurley and Mellen, should anticipate slower travel speeds and changing road conditions.
Residents are urged to allow extra time, keep winter gear in vehicles and monitor updated road reports. Snow tapers by early Sunday morning, but lingering slick spots may persist as temperatures remain below freezing.
