Duluth, MN – A powerful winter storm is poised to sweep across northern Minnesota beginning Tuesday evening, bringing potentially significant snow totals and hazardous travel conditions to the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, a Winter Storm Watch remains in effect from 7 p.m. Tuesday through 1 a.m. Thursday. Forecasters report an 80% chance of at least 6 inches of snow across a wide area, with localized totals possibly exceeding 12 inches near the North Shore and Brainerd Lakes region. Wind gusts could reach up to 35 mph, leading to blowing snow and reduced visibility.
The watch spans multiple Minnesota counties, including St. Louis, Cook, Lake, Cass, Itasca, Aitkin, Pine, Crow Wing, Koochiching, and Carlton, and extends into Bayfield and Douglas counties in northwestern Wisconsin. Tribal lands and major recreational areas such as the Apostle Islands, Voyageurs National Park, and the Boundary Waters are also included.
Drivers are urged to avoid non-essential travel during the storm, especially during Wednesday morning and evening commutes. Officials recommend keeping emergency kits in vehicles and monitoring weather updates closely.
Residents should prepare for school and service disruptions as well as possible power outages due to the wind and heavy snow accumulation.
