Duluth, Minnesota – Spring heat is pushing into northern Minnesota Sunday with unseasonably warm highs near 79°F and gusty south winds raising wildfire risks across Duluth and surrounding areas. The National Weather Service has issued a Fire Weather Watch in effect from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday, warning residents along Highway 61 and near forested zones to avoid outdoor burning and monitor local alerts.
According to the NWS Duluth office, wind gusts could reach 25 to 30 mph Sunday afternoon, especially near open areas and ridge tops. Humidity will drop sharply, creating prime conditions for fire spread in dry grasses and brush. Sunday will be sunny and breezy, followed by a mild and windy Monday with highs again in the upper 70s.
Travelers along Highway 61, particularly north of Two Harbors toward Grand Marais, should expect challenging crosswinds on open stretches and elevated fire danger in roadside vegetation.
Looking ahead, Duluth remains warm through midweek with highs in the mid-70s and continued breezy conditions. A slight chance of showers returns Wednesday afternoon, with better chances for rain and possibly thunderstorms by Thursday.
Residents should secure outdoor items, avoid lawn equipment use during peak wind hours, and keep emergency kits ready in case of sudden wildfire development. The Fire Weather Watch may be upgraded if conditions worsen.
Stay alert—weather conditions could shift quickly. The next update will follow if new advisories are issued for Monday or Tuesday.
