Drivers will feel the sting immediately as wind gusts whip snow into brief whiteouts and push wind chills toward dangerous levels. The cold deepens fast today, and by Saturday evening the advisory-level chill will leave exposed skin vulnerable in minutes. Plan travel carefully, especially along Highway 61 and elevated routes near the shore where snow bursts and crosswinds intensify.
Temperatures rise only slightly this afternoon, hovering near 16°F before falling sharply. Light snow remains possible early, and the blustery feel grows stronger as the day progresses. Meteorologists are now tracking wind chills between –20° and –30° tonight, with readings approaching –35° in the region by early Sunday. This marks one of the first truly dangerous cold snaps of December, and residents should prepare for extended outdoor exposure risks.
Saturday brings more biting air, with highs near 19°F and steady northwest winds. Conditions may deteriorate quickly after sunset as wind chills plunge again. A slight chance of evening snow could further reduce visibility and add slick patches across untreated roads. Keep coats, hats, and gloves ready, and protect pets and pipes as temperatures crash into the single digits.
Sunday stays brutally cold but sunnier, easing travel somewhat by mid-day. Even so, morning wind chills near –30° demand caution. Plan extra time if traveling Sunday, especially early along the harbor and hilltop neighborhoods.
Five-Day Outlook — Duluth, MN
Today: High 16°F. Blustery. Snow chances early.
Saturday: High 19°F. Very cold. Wind chills –20° to –30°.
Saturday Night: Low –10°F. Wind chills to –35°. Slight snow chance.
Sunday: High 7°F. Mostly sunny, very cold.
Monday: High 21°F. Breezy but improving.
Tuesday: High 38°F. Sunny, windy.
