Duluth, MN – Blatnik Bridge recorded a peak wind gust of 64 mph Wednesday afternoon, the strongest across northeast Minnesota and northwest Wisconsin over the last 24 hours. Drivers crossing the span between Duluth and Superior faced dangerous crosswinds, while gusts of 61 mph were clocked at Duluth Harbor and 55 mph at Grand Marais Harbor.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, widespread gusts over 40 mph were reported across the region through 4 p.m. Wednesday. While no wind advisories were in effect, impacts were still widespread—especially on elevated roadways, bridges, and open terrain. Duluth International Airport saw gusts reach 54 mph, and winds topped 47 mph as far west as Brainerd and Cass Lake.
Communities along I-35, Highway 61, and throughout the Iron Range experienced spotty power flickers, fallen limbs, and brief travel delays. Winds between 38 and 46 mph were recorded at Ashland, Grand Rapids, and Cloquet airports. Residents are reminded to secure outdoor holiday decorations, as unsecured inflatables and lights could be damaged or become hazards in strong gusts.
Winds will gradually diminish overnight, though breezy conditions may persist through Thursday morning. Additional advisories remain possible if gusts continue.
