DULUTH, MN – If you step outside in Duluth today, you might do a double take. Is it really March? It sure won’t feel like it! Instead of bundling up against the usual late-winter chill, you might find yourself shedding layers as temperatures take a shocking leap. But don’t get too comfortable—Mother Nature has some surprises up her sleeve, including powerful winds that could send hats flying and make outdoor plans a bit of an adventure.
Spring? More Like a Mini Summer!
Duluth is about to experience a major warm-up, with temperatures soaring to an unexpected 56°F (13°C) on Monday. That’s nearly 30 degrees above what’s normal for this time of year! And if you’re heading down to the Twin Cities, you might even see the mercury climb to a near-summer-like 70°F. Talk about a break from winter!
While this warmth might feel like a gift, it’s coming with a side of strong, blustery winds that could make stepping outside a bit tricky.
Hold Onto Your Hats – The Winds Are Coming
Don’t be fooled by the sunshine—this warm-up is bringing some serious gusts with it. Winds are expected to whip through Duluth at speeds of up to 45 mph, making it feel a lot less like a spring breeze and more like an early-season gale.
If you’re near Lake Superior, get ready for a dramatic show, as the gusts will churn up some impressive waves along the shoreline. Walking across the Aerial Lift Bridge? You might find yourself leaning into the wind just to stay upright.
The combination of dry conditions and strong winds also means an increased fire danger. Officials are urging people to be extra careful with anything that could cause a spark, as fires could spread rapidly in these conditions.
How to Stay Safe and Prepare
With warm temps and wild winds on the way, here’s what you need to keep in mind:
- Secure loose objects – If you’ve got patio furniture, trash cans, or decorations outside, now’s the time to bring them in or tie them down. The last thing you want is to go hunting for your lawn chair in your neighbor’s yard.
- Drive with caution – If you’re driving a high-profile vehicle (think trucks, SUVs, or anything towing a trailer), be extra careful on open roads and bridges, where crosswinds can make handling tricky.
- Skip the bonfire – It might be tempting to enjoy the warm night outside, but with dry air and strong winds, fire danger is high. Hold off on outdoor burning until things calm down.
And Just Like That… Back to Reality
Enjoy the warmth while you can, because it won’t last. By Tuesday, temperatures will take a nosedive, plummeting back down to a much chillier 36°F (2°C) during the day and near freezing at night. That’s a 20-degree drop in just 24 hours!
And with that sudden cooldown, any lingering moisture could turn into slick spots on roads and sidewalks—so don’t pack away the winter boots just yet.
Duluth is no stranger to wild weather swings, but this one is definitely making headlines. One day, it’s nearly spring, the next, winter reminds us it’s not quite done yet. So, whether you’re stepping outside to soak up the rare warmth or bracing against the wind, be prepared for a little bit of everything.
