Duluth, Minn. – Fireworks may fizzle before sunset as extreme heat grips northern Minnesota and Wisconsin, pushing heat index values to 102° and raising the risk of heat-related illness across the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, an Extreme Heat Warning is in effect from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, covering Crow Wing, Cass, St. Louis, and Carlton counties in Minnesota, along with Ashland, Douglas, and Sawyer counties in Wisconsin. Wet Bulb Globe Temperatures are expected to reach 86°F, indicating dangerous heat stress levels even in shaded or partially cloudy areas.
Cities including Brainerd, Hibbing, Duluth, Superior, Spooner, and Ashland should prepare for oppressive heat through the holiday afternoon and evening. Sensitive populations, including the elderly, young children, and those without access to air conditioning, face the highest risk. Several tribal communities, including the Bois Forte, Mille Lacs, Bad River, and Lac Courte Oreilles reservations, are also under threat.
Outdoor events should include shaded rest stations, and residents are urged to limit strenuous activity, hydrate often, and check on neighbors. Stay indoors during peak heat hours if possible.
This heat warning expires at 8 p.m. Friday, but additional alerts could be issued if overnight cooling is limited.
