Duluth, Minnesota – Heat shimmers off pavement, dry grasses rustle in gusty southwest winds, and northern Minnesota is entering one of its hottest stretches of the summer. Conditions are changing quickly today, with dangerous heat combining with elevated wildfire danger across the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, an Extreme Heat Warning remains in effect until 1 a.m. Tuesday, while a Red Flag Warning is in effect from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. today for portions of northeast Minnesota. Afternoon temperatures will climb to 95 degrees, with heat index values approaching 100 degrees in parts of the region. Southwest winds of 10 to 15 mph, with gusts reaching 25 mph, and relative humidity dropping to around 25 percent will create dangerous fire weather conditions.
The combination of heat, wind and dry vegetation means any fire could spread rapidly. Residents should avoid outdoor burning, postpone activities that create sparks, and properly dispose of cigarettes. Fire officials also urge drivers to avoid parking vehicles over tall grass, where hot exhaust systems can ignite dry fuels.
Travel along Interstate 35, U.S. Highway 53 and Highway 61 should remain generally dry, but motorists should prepare for intense afternoon heat. Keep water in your vehicle, especially during longer trips, and check tire pressure before traveling in the hottest part of the day.
Tuesday stays hot with a high near 96 degrees before a noticeable cooldown arrives. Wednesday brings mostly sunny skies with a high around 83 degrees, followed by upper 70s Thursday as breezy conditions continue. The National Weather Service notes dangerous heat may persist across parts of northern Minnesota through Tuesday before cooler air settles in.
The broader national weather pattern continues to feature record heat across portions of the northern Plains while severe storms remain focused farther south and east. No organized severe thunderstorm threat is expected around Duluth during this period, but the heat alone poses a significant health risk.
Stay hydrated, limit strenuous outdoor activity during the afternoon, and check on older neighbors, young children and pets. More advisories may be issued if dangerous heat lingers longer than expected.
Five-Day Forecast for Duluth, Minnesota
- Today: Sunny, hot and breezy. High 95°F. Southwest wind 10–15 mph with gusts up to 25 mph.
- Tuesday: Hot and sunny. High 96°F. Low 68°F.
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny. High 83°F. Low 63°F.
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, breezy. High 79°F. Chance of showers late. Low 59°F.
- Friday: Mostly sunny with a chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms. High 76°F.
