State residents woke to biting air rolling off Lake Superior, rattling flags and freezing exposed skin within minutes.
In northeastern Minnesota, winter weather tightens its grip today as temperatures struggle to climb above the low 20s in Duluth. Gusty winds are already pushing wind chills near zero this morning, creating slick sidewalks and icy patches where snowmelt refreezes.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, a fast-changing pattern will bring multiple snow chances and increasing wind through midweek. Tuesday begins with a slight chance of light snow during the morning commute, followed by strong southwest winds gusting above 30 mph. Even brief snow bursts could reduce visibility on I-35 and along Highway 61.
By Wednesday, temperatures briefly rebound into the low 30s before rain and snow develop late in the day. Conditions deteriorate quickly Wednesday night as winds shift northwest and colder air surges in. Snow may mix with rain before changing fully to snow, setting up a flash-freeze risk on untreated roads.
Plan extra travel time Wednesday evening. Bridges and hilltops may ice first.
Thursday looks like the most disruptive day of the week. Snow is likely during the morning hours, combined with strong winds gusting near 40 mph. Blowing snow may reduce visibility near the lakefront and higher elevations. Afternoon highs stay near 29 degrees, keeping roads slushy and slick.
By Thursday night, skies clear but Arctic air deepens. Overnight lows drop near -7 degrees with wind chills plunging well below zero. Exposed pipes, pets, and vulnerable populations face increased risk.
Looking ahead, Friday remains cold with lingering snow chances and brisk winds. Weekend conditions turn quieter, though temperatures stay firmly winterlike.
5-Day Duluth Outlook
- Today: Partly sunny, windy, high near 21°
- Tuesday: Breezy, slight snow chance, high near 42°
- Wednesday: Rain/snow late, windy, high near 33°
- Thursday: Snow likely, windy, high near 29°
- Friday: Cold with snow chances, high near 21°
