DULUTH, Minn. – Northern Minnesota is bracing for strong to severe thunderstorms beginning late Thursday as a cold front sweeps in from the northwest. Damaging winds and large hail are the primary threats, with the strongest storms expected to track into Duluth, Grand Rapids, and Brainerd before shifting southeast into northwest Wisconsin by early Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, rain and storms will increase in coverage Thursday evening, with chances peaking overnight into Friday morning. Forecast models show up to a 65% chance of storms near Grand Rapids and Brainerd, while Duluth and Silver Bay carry a 45% risk of thunderstorms by early Friday.
Travelers should expect reduced visibility, slick roads, and possible tree damage in the storm’s path. Emergency managers urge residents to charge devices, secure loose outdoor items, and have multiple ways to receive warnings overnight.
By Friday afternoon, the front will push farther south, leaving scattered showers in its wake but reducing the severe threat for most of northern Minnesota. Another round of storms could follow into the weekend, though impacts appear less widespread.
