Duluth, MN – Near-critical fire weather will grip northeast Minnesota on Wednesday, just one day before widespread rain rolls across the Northland from west to east Thursday afternoon into overnight.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, humidity values will drop to 20–25% in areas like Hibbing, Virginia, and Grand Rapids Wednesday, with peak fire conditions expected from late morning through early evening. Though southeast winds will ease compared to Tuesday, any outdoor burning is strongly discouraged. Local authorities urge residents to check burn restrictions due to elevated wildfire risk.
Conditions shift dramatically Thursday as rain builds across the region. There is a 40–70% chance of at least 0.25 inches of rain across eastern Minnesota and northwest Wisconsin, including Duluth, Ely, and Hayward. Some localized pockets could see 0.5–1 inch, especially late Thursday into early Friday morning.
Drivers should expect reduced visibility and slick roads Thursday afternoon and evening. Residents are advised to secure outdoor items, avoid unnecessary travel during heavier downpours, and monitor updates from the NWS.
Rain chances taper off Friday morning, but more alerts may be issued if conditions worsen. Burn restrictions remain in effect in many areas.
