Minnesota — The cold hits instantly along the North Shore, stinging faces and numbing fingers within minutes. Wind cuts across frozen pavement and snow-packed sidewalks, making this one of the harshest December mornings Duluth has seen so far.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, a Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect through mid-morning. Temperatures sit near -9 degrees, while wind chills plunge to -25 to -35 degrees. Frostbite can develop on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes. Residents are urged to limit time outdoors and dress in full winter protection.
Travel conditions are challenging early today. Blowing snow reduces visibility at times, and extreme cold increases the risk of black ice on bridges and untreated roads. Drivers along I-35 and Highway 61 should slow down and allow extra stopping distance. Vehicles may struggle to start, and breakdowns become dangerous quickly in these conditions.
Cold remains locked in through tonight. Lows dip near -4 degrees, with winds keeping wind chills well below zero. Monday brings modest improvement. Sunshine helps highs climb into the low 20s, though it remains breezy and bitter.
Tuesday marks a turning point. Temperatures jump into the low 40s, driven by strong southwest winds gusting over 30 mph. While the warmer air is welcome, blowing snow and rapid melting could create slick spots by evening as temperatures fall again.
Midweek brings a developing winter pattern. By Wednesday, highs settle into the low 30s, with a chance of light snow. A rain-to-snow mix is possible Wednesday night into Thursday as a messy system moves through, accompanied by strong winds. Models hint at accumulating snow, though details remain uncertain.
With Christmas travel approaching, this stretch marks a true winter takeover. Prepare vehicles, carry emergency kits, and check on neighbors during extreme cold.
5-Day Outlook for Duluth, MN
- Monday: Partly sunny, high 23°F
- Tuesday: Windy, high 41°F
- Wednesday: Slight snow chance, high 33°F
- Thursday: Rain/snow mix possible, high 33°F
- Friday: Chance of snow, high 22°F
