DULUTH, Minn. – A crisp, calm start across the North Shore this morning marks the quiet before a blustery early-winter turn. The air feels sharp near the harbor, and skies remain clear—for now. By the weekend, a mix of rain, strong winds, and even a few snowflakes will remind residents that November’s colder bite has arrived.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, a weak front crosses the region Friday with light rain developing through the afternoon, then tapering late. Winds will shift north at 15 to 25 mph, sending temperatures tumbling into the 20s by Friday night. Lake Superior will whip up choppy waves and raw breezes along I-35 and Park Point, reducing visibility for drivers and boaters alike.
Saturday brings brighter skies but much colder air, with highs struggling to reach the mid-30s. By Sunday, a fresh Arctic push deepens across the Arrowhead, producing wind chills in the teens and a chance of scattered lake-effect snow showers—especially along higher terrain east of downtown Duluth. While accumulation should stay light, the first true flurries of the season are expected for many neighborhoods.
Residents should secure outdoor decorations, check vehicle antifreeze, and prepare for the first icy commutes of the season. The start of next week looks calmer but cold, with widespread 20s each morning and brisk northwest winds continuing.
Models hint at another potential snowmaker closer to Veterans Day as a stronger front sweeps the Upper Midwest, setting the stage for what could be an early start to winter across northern Minnesota.
Five-Day Forecast for Duluth, MN:
Thu: 46/36 – Increasing clouds; slight rain chance late.
Fri: 41/24 – Breezy; scattered rain, turning colder.
Sat: 33/21 – Partly sunny; brisk north winds.
Sun: 32/22 – Light snow showers; colder, gusty.
Mon: 27/20 – Mostly sunny; early winter chill lingers.
