Duluth, MN – Critical fire weather conditions are developing across northern Minnesota today, with strong winds and dry air creating an immediate risk for fast-moving wildfires through 8 p.m. Monday.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, a Red Flag Warning is in effect from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. for areas including Duluth, Grand Rapids, Brainerd, Ely, and International Falls. Southwest winds will increase to 25 to 30 mph, while relative humidity drops to around 20 percent—conditions that allow fires to ignite easily and spread rapidly.
The threat is highest in forested and grassy areas across the Northland, where dry fuels can carry flames quickly. Roads such as U.S. Highway 53, Highway 2, and I-35 may see reduced visibility if smoke develops, especially during peak afternoon winds.
High temperatures will reach between 48 and 61 degrees today before a steady warm-up begins. Tuesday brings drier and calmer conditions, followed by highs climbing into the upper 60s and 70s by Wednesday, especially inland away from Lake Superior.
Residents should avoid any outdoor burning, secure equipment that could produce sparks, and report smoke immediately. Winds will begin to ease after sunset, but elevated fire risk may persist into Tuesday depending on conditions.
