Minnesota greets the morning with bitter cold biting exposed skin as snow clouds gather quickly. Light flakes drift at first, but conditions deteriorate fast as a winter system pushes into the Northland.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, rain and snow develop late today, changing to all snow by Thursday morning. Gusty south winds strengthen through the afternoon, reaching up to 40 mph. Visibility may drop quickly as snow intensity increases and winds whip across open stretches of road.
Travel conditions worsen tonight. Slushy roads turn snow-covered as temperatures fall. Bridges and untreated surfaces become slick fast. Drivers along I-35, Highway 53, and Highway 61 should plan extra time and be prepared for sudden whiteouts, especially near the lake.
By Thursday, strong northwest winds take over. Blowing snow becomes the main concern even after snowfall lightens. Snow accumulations of 2 to 6 inches are likely south of U.S. Highway 2, including Duluth and Cloquet. Higher totals are possible in the Arrowhead. Along the South Shore in northwest Wisconsin, lake effect snow may produce 3 inches or more by early Friday.
Temperatures remain locked in winter mode. Highs struggle near the mid-30s Thursday before falling sharply. Thursday night lows dip near zero. Wind chills plunge well below freezing, making travel and outdoor plans uncomfortable and risky.
Friday stays cold with lingering snow chances. Blowing snow continues in exposed areas. Conditions improve gradually by afternoon, but icy stretches remain possible.
Saturday remains brisk with scattered snow showers and highs near the low 20s. Sunday stays cold but calmer, offering a short break before the next system approaches early next week.
Five-Day Outlook (Duluth, MN):
• Thursday: Snow, windy, high near 35
• Friday: Chance of snow, high near 18
• Saturday: Breezy, snow showers, high near 22
• Sunday: Mostly sunny, high near 11
• Monday: Chance of snow, high near 24
