Duluth, Minnesota – Strong southerly winds are sweeping across northeast Minnesota Sunday, bringing both a warm-up and a heightened fire danger through Tuesday. Fire officials urge residents along Highway 61 and in wooded communities to delay outdoor burning and secure loose items ahead of gusts topping 40 mph.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, the strongest winds will continue through late Sunday and taper slowly into Monday. Low humidity levels—dropping near 30 percent—will combine with the gusty pattern to create rapid fire spread potential. Motorists should use caution on I-35 and Highway 61, where crosswinds could make driving difficult for high-profile vehicles.
The warm, dry stretch marks an unseasonably mild start to October, with highs near 74°F Sunday and back to 60°F on Monday before a midweek cooldown. A frost risk is possible in outlying counties by Tuesday night, especially north of Grand Rapids and Hibbing. Residents are encouraged to prepare gardens and protect outdoor plants as cooler air returns.
Forecasters say the rest of the week looks calm and bright, ideal for early Halloween decorating or leaf-viewing trips along the North Shore. Fire weather conditions should ease after Tuesday, but continued dry air means residents should check local burning restrictions before lighting any fires.
Five-Day Forecast for Duluth, MN:
Sun: 74/48 – Sunny and breezy; fire danger elevated across NE Minnesota.
Mon: 60/45 – Mostly sunny; lighter winds, dry air lingers.
Tue: 63/38 – Sunny; patchy frost possible late inland.
Wed: 60/41 – Mostly clear and calm; cool fall day.
Thu: 64/46 – Breezy and mild; pleasant for outdoor fall activities.
