Duluth, Minnesota – A fast-moving weather system is expected to bring a wintry mix to northeastern Minnesota and northwest Wisconsin on Thursday, with changing precipitation types likely to impact travel conditions along major roadways.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, light snow showers or flurries are possible this morning, with little to no accumulation expected. A more organized round of precipitation is forecast to arrive Thursday morning, with the highest snow accumulations expected across Arrowhead and Iron County. Probabilities indicate that some locations could see around 2 inches of snow, while areas farther south receive lighter totals.
As snow moves through during the morning hours, temperatures are expected to rise quickly into the lower to mid-30s, allowing precipitation to transition to a rain and snow mix. Forecasters caution that localized freezing drizzle is possible, especially during the changeover period, which could lead to slick spots on untreated roads.
Major travel corridors potentially affected include Interstate 35, U.S. Highway 53, U.S. Highway 2, and Minnesota Highway 61, impacting travel through Duluth, Cloquet, Two Harbors, Hibbing, and along the North Shore. Conditions may vary significantly over short distances, particularly during the morning and midday hours Thursday.
By Thursday night, precipitation is expected to taper off as a cold front moves through the region. Friday will turn colder and windier, with highs dropping back into the upper teens to lower 30s and light snow ending early in the day. Skies are expected to partially clear by Friday afternoon.
The National Weather Service notes that while snowfall amounts are generally modest, the combination of mixed precipitation and fluctuating temperatures increases the risk for minor travel issues.
Students, commuters, and shift workers traveling along I-35 and U.S. 53 Thursday morning should plan for extra travel time and monitor updated forecasts.
This outlook is based on guidance issued Wednesday morning and will be updated as conditions evolve.
