Brainerd, Minnesota – A powerful burst of fall winds is sweeping through central and northeast Minnesota today, with gusts strong enough to down tree limbs and cause isolated power outages. The National Weather Service in Duluth has issued multiple Wind Advisories through 6 p.m. Tuesday, covering Crow Wing, Cass, Aitkin, and Pine counties, including Brainerd, Walker, Hinckley, Aitkin, and Pine City.
According to the weather service, northwest winds of 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 50 mph are expected from midmorning through early evening. The strongest gusts will occur in open areas and near the Mille Lacs Band tribal lands, where scattered tree damage is possible.
Residents are urged to secure lightweight outdoor items such as trash bins, patio furniture, and holiday decorations. High-profile vehicles may be difficult to control on exposed stretches of Highway 371, I-35, and U.S. 169. According to Minnesota Power and county emergency managers, isolated outages could occur if limbs fall onto lines during peak gusts.
Winds are expected to ease gradually after sunset, with calmer, cooler conditions returning overnight. Another breezy day is possible Thursday as the fall pattern remains active across the Northland.
