DULUTH, Minnesota – After a stretch of warm late-summer weather, northern Minnesota is about to experience a sharp cooldown that could bring patchy frost early next week. Gardeners and growers are being urged to take precautions to protect sensitive plants as the season takes a chilly turn.
Storms First, Then a Cooler Air Mass
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, showers and thunderstorms will continue Thursday night into Friday. Parts of northwest Wisconsin may see severe storms Friday afternoon, with damaging winds and large hail being the main threats.
Once that storm system passes, a cooler air mass will move into the region, bringing significantly lower temperatures heading into the start of next week.
Frost Risk Early Next Week
Forecasters expect overnight lows to dip into the 40s on Monday night into Tuesday, with some areas in the Northland possibly dropping near freezing. This could lead to patchy frost, especially in low-lying or rural areas.
Gardeners and farmers are advised to:
Monitor local forecasts closely
Cover sensitive garden plants overnight
Bring potted plants indoors if possible
Avoid watering plants late in the day, as moisture can increase frost risk
Weekend Forecast: Cooler Days and Chilly Nights
Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in the coming days:
| Day | Highs | Lows | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Friday | Low to mid 70s | 50s | Storms likely, some severe |
| Saturday | 60s | Upper 40s | Cooler with a chance of showers |
| Sunday | 60s | Mid 40s | More showers near Arrowhead |
| Monday Night | – | Upper 30s–40s | Frost possible in some areas |
Not Unusual, But Still a Concern
While early frost in late August or early September is not uncommon in northern Minnesota, this year’s recent warm weather may have delayed preparations for many home gardeners and small-scale growers.
Officials stress that it’s better to prepare in advance than risk losing plants to an unexpected temperature dip. Cloud cover and wind patterns could influence how low temperatures fall, so residents are encouraged to stay updated over the weekend.
Stay Weather-Aware Through the Weekend
The National Weather Service recommends keeping an eye on local forecasts, as frost risk could shift or intensify depending on how conditions evolve.
With cooler air settling in after Friday’s storms, residents in northern Minnesota and surrounding regions should brace for early signs of fall. While not unusual, this shift in weather could be damaging to outdoor plants if not handled properly. Taking a few precautions now could help avoid disappointment — and damaged gardens — next week.
