A shift in the weather is underway across northern Minnesota and north-central Wisconsin, as a cold front brings evening rain followed by a chilly, frosty finish to the week. Residents across the region should be ready for wet weather tonight, fog Thursday morning, and possibly the first signs of fall-like cold by the end of the week.
Evening Showers and Isolated Storms Tonight
The National Weather Service in Duluth says a cold front will push through the Arrowhead region and northern Wisconsin Wednesday evening. Expect:
Scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms into the night
Heavy downpours in some spots, though severe weather is not expected
Fog possible by Thursday morning, especially in areas that receive overnight rain
Drivers across the region, especially near Duluth, Ely, Hibbing, and Grand Rapids, should be cautious on slick roads and watch for reduced visibility early Thursday.
Chilly Air Behind the Front: Frost Risk by Friday Morning
Once the rain clears, cooler and drier air will settle in. This drop in temperature could lead to the first frost of the season in some areas:
Thursday night lows could fall into the upper 30s, especially in sheltered valleys and rural areas
Cities like Hibbing, Ely, and Grand Rapids may see frost develop, particularly in northern St. Louis and Lake counties
A frost advisory may be issued, depending on how much clearing occurs overnight
Gardeners and farmers should take precautions by:
Covering sensitive plants
Bringing potted plants indoors
Protecting any late-season crops
Weekend Rebound: Sunny and Mild Days Ahead
The good news? After the cold snap, the region will enjoy a pleasant stretch of dry and sunny weather through the weekend. Temperatures will rebound, making for perfect outdoor conditions from Friday through Sunday.
Here’s the 5-day forecast for Duluth, MN:
| Day | Forecast | Highs (°F) | Lows (°F) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wednesday Night | Showers, isolated storms, fog possible | Near 50 | |
| Thursday | Partly cloudy, breezy | Around 62 | Upper 30s |
| Friday | Sunny and cool | Around 65 | Low to mid-40s |
| Saturday | Mostly sunny, warmer | Low 70s | Upper 40s |
| Sunday | Sunny and pleasant | Mid-70s | Around 50 |
What to Watch For
No severe storms, but locally heavy rain could still cause ponding on roads tonight
Frost risk increases Thursday night—plan now to protect plants
Dry, sunny days return by Friday, perfect for outdoor work or weekend plans
A cold front moving across northern Minnesota and Wisconsin will bring rain and storms tonight, followed by the coolest air of the season so far. With a possible frost advisory in the forecast, residents should protect any sensitive plants Thursday night. After that, a sunny and mild weekend awaits, making for a great close to August and a gentle start to early fall.
