Duluth, Minnesota – Strong to severe thunderstorms are expected to roll into northern Minnesota Friday evening and continue into Saturday, bringing damaging winds, heavy rain, and a flash flood threat to cities including Duluth, Ely, and Grand Rapids.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, storms may first develop late Friday afternoon in northern Minnesota, with activity intensifying overnight and expanding into northwest Wisconsin. The highest risk for severe weather—including wind gusts over 60 mph and large hail—appears between 9 p.m. Friday and 3 a.m. Saturday.
Communities south of the Iron Range such as Hinckley, Brainerd, and Two Harbors may see the strongest impacts. Moderate to locally heavy rainfall is likely Friday night, with widespread downpours possible Saturday. Flash flooding could affect low-lying areas and roads across Carlton, St. Louis, and Pine counties.
Today (Wednesday), isolated severe storms are also possible in the afternoon across northeastern Minnesota and into northwest Wisconsin. Gusty winds and large hail are the main threats through early evening.
Residents should prepare for travel disruptions, secure outdoor items, and monitor alerts through Saturday. Additional watches or warnings may be issued as the system develops.
🗓️ Five-Day Forecast – Duluth, MN
- Wednesday: Scattered PM storms, 60°F early, high 78°F. Wind gusts to 60 mph possible.
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, high 80°F. Calm before next storm system.
- Friday: Thunderstorms likely after 5 p.m., high near 82°F. Wind gusts 30+ mph.
- Saturday: Widespread rain and storms, high 75°F. Flash flood risk.
- Sunday: Partly cloudy, lingering showers, high 77°F. Drying trend begins.
