Red Flag Warning and Dry Conditions Continue Brings Fire Weather Concerns to Northern Minnesota

Photo byNational Weather Service

Dry weather and gusty winds elevate fire risks in the region while temperatures fluctuate throughout the week.

Northern Minnesota braces for a rollercoaster week of fall weather with fire risks and fluctuating temperatures.

[DULUTH] — Issued by the National Weather Service at 3:31 PM on Monday, September 30, 2024.

Cold Front and Fire Weather Conditions to Dominate Northern Minnesota

Northern Minnesota is experiencing a period of dry, gusty conditions as a cold front sweeps across the region. While light rain is possible in some areas, most precipitation will evaporate before reaching the ground. A Red Flag Warning is currently in effect for western portions of the region until 9 PM CDT tonight. The combination of dry air and strong westerly winds has significantly raised the risk for wildfires.

The cold front is expected to bring cooler temperatures on Tuesday, with highs reaching the upper 50s to low 60s, offering a brief reprieve from today's highs. However, fire weather concerns remain elevated, especially in areas where vegetation is already dry.

Fire Weather Risks Persist Despite Cooler Temperatures

Although temperatures will drop on Tuesday, dry conditions and westerly winds will still promote near-critical fire weather across the region. Winds are expected to be slightly weaker than today, but low relative humidity values could keep the fire danger high. Residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning and take precautions as the region remains vulnerable to fast-spreading wildfires.

Lake-effect showers may develop in the Bayfield area as temperatures cool, but any precipitation is expected to be light, with little impact on the dry conditions.

Another Warm-Up Expected on Wednesday with Renewed Fire Risks

By Wednesday, temperatures will rebound, reaching the mid-60s to mid-70s as another cold front approaches. The dry conditions will persist, potentially elevating fire risks once again. While winds are not expected to be as strong as today, the combination of dry air and gusts could still create hazardous fire weather conditions.

The temperature rollercoaster continues into the latter half of the week, with another cool-down expected on Thursday and Friday, followed by yet another warm-up on Saturday. Temperatures will fluctuate throughout the week, with chances for frost and freeze conditions possible by Friday morning in northern Minnesota and northwest Wisconsin.

Hazardous Weather Changes Fast – Stay Updated

Weather Watches, Warnings, and Advisories are frequently updated by the National Weather Service. Please look for updates to this report from the National Weather Service, or your local news channels and NOAA All Hazards radio.

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