Duluth, Minnesota – Showers and wildfire smoke are complicating travel and outdoor plans across northeast Minnesota Friday, with more rain and storms expected through Monday. An Air Quality Alert remains in effect until 7 p.m. today for portions of the Northland, especially near Duluth and areas downwind of Lake Superior.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, scattered storms will continue into Saturday with a 30–70% chance of rain each day. Today’s highs will reach the mid-70s inland but stay closer to 60 near the lake. Patchy smoke is reducing visibility and may worsen respiratory conditions, particularly for sensitive groups.
Cities like Hibbing, Ely, and Grand Marais may see intermittent smoke through tonight, while heavier showers and a few embedded thunderstorms are possible along Highway 53 and I-35. Overnight lows will dip into the 40s across the region.
Residents are urged to limit strenuous outdoor activity, keep windows closed, and run air purifiers or A/C on recirculate. Drivers should be cautious of sudden downpours and reduced visibility, especially near the lakefront.
Rain chances remain elevated through Monday, with no severe storms expected. Additional updates may follow if air quality or rain intensifies.
