Winter Storm Warnings in Duluth, Minnesota
Duluth sits on the southwestern shore of Lake Superior, and that geography shapes everything about its winters. Cold air streaming across open water loads clouds with moisture, and the city's elevated terrain wrings that moisture out as snow — sometimes relentlessly. Across the 13 winters analyzed from 2012 through 2024, Duluth averaged 52.8 inches (134.2 cm) of snowfall per year, with December, April, and March standing out as the snowiest months. The fact that April ranks among the top three is a reminder that spring arrives slowly here, and a late-season dump is never out of the question.
Heavy-snow events — days intense enough to draw official warnings — averaged roughly 0.7 days per year over that stretch. That figure is modest, but it understates the disruption a single serious storm can cause in a city built on hills above a frigid lake. Average winter overnight lows settle around 10.6 °F (−11.9 °C), meaning any falling snow arrives into a landscape that won't thaw it quickly.
A winter storm warning signals that hazardous conditions are imminent or already occurring — typically heavy snow, blowing and drifting, or dangerous combinations of wind and cold. It is the highest-tier winter alert, intended to prompt immediate action. Importantly, the snowfall thresholds that trigger a warning differ by region; what qualifies in Duluth may not in a southern city less accustomed to significant accumulation. Always follow guidance from your local National Weather Service office.
| Years analyzed | 13 winters (2012–2024) |
|---|---|
| Avg. annual snowfall | 52.8 in (134.2 cm) |
| Snowiest months | December, April, March |
| Avg. winter overnight low | 10.6°F (−11.9°C) |
| Heavy-snow days per year | 0.7 |
Climatology figures are approximate estimates for the period shown and may differ from official local records.
Watch vs warning: a winter storm watch means a major storm is possible in Duluth within 12–48 hours (be prepared); a winter storm warning means it is happening or about to (take action now). For full definitions, see the complete winter storm warning guide.
Duluth winter storm FAQ
Is there a winter storm warning in Duluth right now?
The live status at the top of this page shows whether a winter storm warning, watch, or advisory is currently in effect for Duluth, Minnesota. It checks live forecast and alert data automatically and refreshes every time the page loads.
Does Duluth get winter storm warnings often?
Duluth sees significant snowfall in most winters, and winter storm warnings are issued in a typical season. The frequency varies year to year with the track of major storm systems.
How much snow triggers a winter storm warning in Duluth?
There is no single national trigger: warning criteria are set by each local National Weather Service office, ranging from a couple of inches of snow in areas where snow is rare up to 6 inches or more in snow-belt regions, and significant ice accumulation can warrant a warning on its own.
What should I do during a winter storm warning in Duluth?
Avoid travel if possible, stay indoors and keep warm, prepare for power outages, keep an emergency kit, and check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours. Follow guidance from Minnesota authorities and the National Weather Service (NWS).
Winter storm warnings in nearby locations
- Winter storm warning in Eau Claire, WI
- Winter storm warning in Saint Paul, MN
- Winter storm warning in Minneapolis, MN
- Winter storm warning in International Falls, MN
- Winter storm warning in Rochester, MN
- Winter storm warning in La Crosse, WI
See all locations, read the latest winter weather news, or the full winter storm warning guide. Definitions follow the National Weather Service (NWS) criteria; thresholds vary by region.