DULUTH, Minn. – The morning air feels heavy over Lake Superior, with a steel-gray sky and the kind of chill that hints at change. By this weekend, northern Minnesota will feel its first solid step into winter, with lake-effect snow showers and biting winds sweeping in from the northwest.
The National Weather Service in Duluth reports a 50–80% chance for lake-effect snow to develop Saturday night into Sunday, especially for areas east of Ashland and Iron counties in northwest Wisconsin. Up to an inch could fall in the higher terrain of the Arrowhead, with locally heavier bursts near the lakeshore. While widespread accumulation is unlikely, brief squalls could create slippery roads and reduced visibility—especially along U.S. 2 and Highway 61 heading toward Two Harbors and Silver Bay.
Saturday brings a temporary calm, with highs in the mid-30s under partly sunny skies. But Sunday turns noticeably colder and windier, as gusts top 25 mph and temperatures struggle to reach the low 30s. Wind chills will dip into the upper teens by evening—a sharp reminder that November’s gentle start is ending quickly.
Drivers and hunters heading north this weekend should prepare for changing conditions, with slick spots and blowing snow possible near open fields and ridgelines.
Early next week remains cold and mostly dry, with highs in the 30s and sunshine returning by Monday. Veterans Day should bring quieter skies, but the pattern looks primed for another winter system by midmonth—just in time for pre-Thanksgiving travel.
Five-Day Forecast for Duluth, MN:
Fri: 40/24 – Breezy; sprinkles possible early.
Sat: 35/21 – Partly sunny, calm; cooler.
Sun: 33/22 – Breezy; slight snow chance, blustery.
Mon: 35/27 – Mostly sunny; crisp and cold.
Tue: 43/30 – Sunny; light breeze for Veterans Day.
