Duluth, MN – A powerful winter storm is continuing to hammer northeastern Minnesota and northwestern Wisconsin, bringing heavy snow, damaging winds, and dangerous blizzard conditions that are expected to last into early Monday.
Officials say the combination of snowfall and strong winds is creating hazardous travel conditions, with periods of near-zero visibility reported across several counties.
Heavy Snowfall Expected Overnight
According to the National Weather Service office in Duluth, the most intense snowfall is expected from Sunday evening through early Monday morning. Snowfall rates during this period could be heavy at times, rapidly reducing visibility and making roads impassable.
Parts of northwestern Wisconsin are expected to see the highest accumulations, with storm totals ranging from 8 to 18 inches. Forecasters say localized areas could exceed a foot of snow, particularly near Hurley, Phillips, Ashland, and Iron County.
Minnesota Impacts Driven by Wind
In northeastern Minnesota, including Duluth, Two Harbors, Silver Bay, and Grand Marais, snowfall totals are expected to be lighter, generally ranging from 1 to 6 inches. However, the impact will be significantly amplified by strong northwest winds.
Wind gusts between 30 and 50 mph are producing widespread blowing and drifting snow. Along the Lake Superior South Shore, conditions have deteriorated rapidly, prompting continued blizzard warnings for several areas.
Life-Threatening Travel Conditions
The National Weather Service warns that travel may become life-threatening at times, especially overnight. Whiteout conditions are possible, with visibility dropping to near zero during periods of heavy snow and strong gusts.
Snow is expected to taper off from west to east Monday morning, lingering the longest into early Monday afternoon across northern Iron and Ashland counties in Wisconsin.
Dangerous Cold Follows the Snow
Even after snowfall ends, blustery winds are forecast to persist throughout Monday. This will lead to continued drifting snow and reduced visibility in open areas and on rural roads.
Forecasters are also warning of dangerously cold wind chills, which could drop to -20 degrees late Sunday night into Monday morning, increasing the risk of frostbite for anyone exposed for extended periods.
Safety Warnings and Preparedness
Officials are urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel during the height of the storm. Those who must travel are advised to keep emergency kits in their vehicles, including blankets, food, water, and fully charged phones.
High winds may also lead to isolated power outages, and residents are encouraged to prepare for possible disruptions.
Warnings Remain in Effect
As of Sunday evening, winter storm warnings, blizzard warnings, and high wind warnings remain in effect across much of northeastern Minnesota and northwestern Wisconsin. Residents are advised to closely monitor local forecasts and heed guidance from emergency officials.
Conclusion
This winter storm is expected to remain a major hazard through Monday morning, with snow, wind, and extreme cold combining to create dangerous conditions across the region. Authorities stress that delaying travel and staying indoors when possible could prevent serious emergencies.
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