Minnesota – The air bites instantly, stinging exposed skin as wind scours snow-packed streets along Lake Superior. Even brief trips outside feel punishing as the Northland remains locked in deep winter cold.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, wind chills plunged between 20 and 30 degrees below zero by late morning across northeast Minnesota and northwest Wisconsin. Northwest winds continue to drive dangerous cold into Duluth, the Iron Range, and the Arrowhead, increasing the risk of frostbite in minutes.
Actual air temperatures hover near zero or below in Duluth, but steady winds make it feel far colder. Commuters along I-35, U.S. 53, and Highway 61 should prepare for vehicles struggling to start and reduced visibility from blowing snow, even with minimal accumulation.
Conditions remain harsh through the day, with highs only reaching the single digits. Flurries may develop at times, especially near the lake, but the main hazard stays the cold itself. Residents are urged to cover all exposed skin, limit time outdoors, and keep emergency kits in vehicles.
The extreme cold does not ease quickly. Another round of bitter wind chills is possible into Thursday and Friday mornings, with some locations dipping closer to 35 below zero. Cold Weather Advisories may be expanded if winds increase or temperatures fall further.
By Friday, sunshine helps slightly, but highs only climb near 10 degrees. Saturday finally brings modest relief, with highs nearing the upper teens. Even then, it remains well below average for late January.
This prolonged cold connects to a larger Arctic pattern across the Midwest and Great Lakes, where extensive ice cover allows frigid air to persist longer than usual.
Dress in layers, check on neighbors, and plan errands carefully through the end of the week. The cold is not just uncomfortable—it is dangerous.
Five-Day Outlook for Duluth, Minnesota
Today: Mostly cloudy and very cold, high near 5
Tonight: Mostly cloudy, low near -7
Thursday: Chance of flurries, high near 6
Friday: Sunny but cold, high near 10
Saturday: Sunny, still cold, high near 19
