DULUTH, Minn. – Northern Minnesota’s stretch of calm fall weather is ending as a wet, gusty system approaches from the Plains, threatening rain and rougher conditions along Lake Superior late Thursday and Friday. The mix of showers and wind could create slick spots on I-35 and reduced visibility for coastal commuters.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, rain chances rise sharply Thursday afternoon and evening, with a 70% likelihood of showers. Winds will shift from the southeast to southwest, gusting up to 25 mph near the lakefront. Boaters and anyone planning late-week travel should stay alert for sudden wind shifts and waves topping three to five feet.
Friday remains breezy and unsettled with lingering showers, but skies begin clearing by Saturday morning as drier air filters in. Sunshine returns through the weekend, making Saturday ideal for pumpkin patches, fall hiking, or leaf viewing along Skyline Parkway and the North Shore Scenic Drive. Temperatures will stay mild for mid-October, reaching the upper 50s to mid-60s before dipping again Sunday night.
As the region heads deeper into fall, Duluth residents should prep for quick changes — from mild sun to brisk, damp fronts — typical of late-October weather. Keep light rain gear handy and secure outdoor decorations or Halloween displays ahead of Thursday’s wind.
Five-Day Forecast for Duluth, MN:
Wed: 54/47 – Cloudy, then partly sunny; light east wind.
Thu: 58/55 – Showers likely; breezy with gusts up to 20 mph.
Fri: 67/49 – Showers early, turning breezy; clearing late.
Sat: 58/41 – Mostly sunny; cool and dry.
Sun: 54/42 – Partly cloudy; pleasant fall day.
