Duluth, MN – Early morning travelers across the Northland are being urged to use caution as Winter Weather Advisories remain in effect across parts of northeast Minnesota and northwest Wisconsin, bringing light snow, gusty winds, and slippery road conditions.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, areas of Cook and Lake counties in Minnesota could see up to one additional inch of snow, with wind gusts as high as 45 mph before the advisory expires at 4 a.m. CST. Gusty winds may also bring down tree branches, especially in exposed areas.
In northwest Wisconsin, Bayfield, Ashland, and Iron counties remain under a Winter Weather Advisory until 6 a.m. CST, where lake-effect snow is producing localized slick spots. Snowfall totals are generally expected to stay under one inch, but rapidly changing lake-effect bands may cause sudden reductions in visibility.
Impacted locations include Grand Marais, Isabella, Bayfield, Ashland, Hurley, and Washburn, as well as the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Madeline Island, and portions of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Several tribal lands, including the Grand Portage Reservation, Red Cliff Band, and Bad River Reservation, are also included in the advisory areas.
While snowfall amounts are relatively light, officials stress that untreated roads, bridges, and overpasses may become slick, especially during the early morning commute. Conditions may vary significantly over short distances due to lake-effect snow bands.
Drivers are encouraged to slow down, increase following distance, and be prepared for rapidly changing visibility. Travelers can check current road conditions by calling 511 or visiting 511mn.org or 511wi.gov before heading out.
