Duluth, Minn. – Hazardous winds are expected to whip across western Lake Superior Wednesday into Thursday, creating dangerous conditions for boaters and small craft. Gusts may peak near 30 knots on open waters, producing steep waves and limited visibility.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, southwest winds will strengthen through Wednesday before turning northeast by Thursday. The shift will impact key areas from Grand Marais to Two Harbors, with the highest gusts likely offshore near the Western Lake Superior Buoy, where readings could reach 27 to 30 knots.
Mariners should exercise extreme caution, particularly near exposed locations such as Outer Island, Stockton Island, and Devils Island, where gusts above 25 knots are expected. Small craft advisories are likely as conditions worsen, and the NWS warns that capsizing risk increases significantly with these wind speeds.
Recreational boaters in Duluth, Superior, and surrounding harbors are urged to delay trips until conditions ease by late Thursday. Residents along the North Shore may also notice rough surf and strong shoreline currents, adding hazards for swimmers and anglers.
Winds are expected to ease by Friday, with calmer conditions through the weekend, though another pattern shift is possible early next week.
