DULUTH, Minn. – Drivers in northern Minnesota should prepare for severe thunderstorms Wednesday, with damaging winds and large hail expected to disrupt travel.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, storms will build Wednesday afternoon and evening, with the highest threat along the I-35 corridor. Hail up to one inch and gusts topping 50 mph may hit Duluth, Cloquet, and Two Harbors. The strongest cells could also extend into northwest Wisconsin, including Ashland and Bayfield counties.
Travelers should avoid unnecessary trips during peak storm hours and monitor road conditions, especially on I-35 and U.S. Highway 2. Power outages are possible, and loose outdoor items should be secured before storms arrive.
Wednesday’s high will reach near 78 before storms develop. Conditions remain unsettled through Thursday and Friday, with more showers and thunderstorms possible. Breezy winds from the northeast will add to hazardous conditions on Lake Superior, where small craft advisories may be needed.
By the weekend, skies stay cloudy with temperatures holding in the mid-60s. Saturday looks damp with scattered showers before a gradual clearing trend by Monday.
Residents are urged to keep weather radios and mobile alerts on, as additional advisories may be issued. Spotters are encouraged to report hail and rainfall totals to the National Weather Service.
Warnings remain in effect through Friday, with the storm threat lingering into early next week.
Five Day Forecast for Duluth, MN
- Wednesday, Sept. 17: High 78, chance of storms after 4 p.m. Some severe. Low 59.
- Thursday: High 64, showers and storms possible. Breezy. Low 56.
- Friday: High 62, chance of showers. Breezy winds. Low 55.
- Saturday: High 64, scattered showers. Low 57.
- Sunday: High 69, mostly cloudy, breezy. Low 58.
