Duluth, MN – A prolonged stretch of dangerous heat and humidity is expected to return across Minnesota and parts of northwest Wisconsin this weekend, with forecasters warning that Heat Advisories and Extreme Heat Warnings may eventually be needed.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, temperatures will begin climbing Saturday, with afternoon highs reaching the low to upper 80s. Conditions are expected to become even hotter Sunday through Tuesday, when highs rise into the upper 80s and lower 90s alongside increasing humidity.
Forecasters say moderate to major HeatRisk impacts are expected from Saturday through Tuesday, increasing the potential for heat-related illness, especially for vulnerable populations.
For Sunday, the NWS forecasts:
- North-central Minnesota: 50% to 90% chance of Major HeatRisk
- Remainder of northeast Minnesota: 20% to 60% chance
- Northwest Wisconsin: 20% to 45% chance, with isolated areas reaching 60%
By Monday, widespread Major HeatRisk is expected across much of the region.
The CDC/NWS HeatRisk scale indicates that Major HeatRisk can affect anyone without adequate cooling or hydration and may place additional strain on health systems and infrastructure.
Residents are encouraged to stay hydrated, limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, check on elderly neighbors and others at higher risk, and never leave children or pets inside parked vehicles.
The National Weather Service said forecast confidence is increasing and urged residents to monitor updates as Heat Advisories or Extreme Heat Warnings may be issued before the weekend.
