This blog post summarizes a short-term weather pattern shift affecting our region. A warm, sunny Monday gave way to a fast-moving cold front that brought light rain, stronger winds, and a colder air mass anchored by a low pressure over Lake Superior.
I explain the timing of the front, expected winds and precipitation, how it will feel with wind chill, and the outlook through the upcoming weekend so readers can plan accordingly.
What just happened and why it matters
On Monday we experienced unseasonably mild conditions with sunshine and temperatures in the mid-60s, aided by gusty southerly winds that pushed readings into the upper 60s in southeastern locations.
That warmth was brief: a cold front moved through in the afternoon, producing light showers and shifting the pattern to a cooler, windier regime.
Early-week timeline
Monday: Mild with highs generally in the mid-60s, localized upper-60s in southeast areas; gusts up to 35 mph from the south ahead of the front.
The frontal passage produced light precipitation, with most sites observing about 0.1 inch or less of rain.
Tuesday: The low pressure center tracks over Lake Superior, ushering in a colder airmass and stronger winds.
Expect sustained winds of 15–25 mph and gusts up to 40 mph, with temperatures falling into the 40s but feeling like the mid-30s because of wind chill.
Widespread light rain is likely late Tuesday morning into the afternoon, tapering to isolated showers overnight.
Forecast details and impacts
The combination of colder air and brisk winds will be the defining feature of the midweek period.
These elements affect not just the thermometer readings but also travel, outdoor activities, and small craft on inland waters.
Winds, precipitation, and temperature specifics
Key points to keep in mind:
- Wind: Sustained 15–25 mph, gusts up to 40 mph on Tuesday — enough to rattle loose objects and make high-profile vehicles feel unstable.
- Rain: Light, widespread rain Tuesday afternoon; most totals will be modest, similar to Monday’s brief showers.
- Temperatures: Daytime highs in the 40s on Tuesday and Wednesday, with readings potentially touching 50° in the far southwest on Wednesday.
- Overnight lows will remain in the upper 30s to low 40s.
- Wind chill: Despite air temps near 40°, wind will make it feel like the low to mid-30s.
From an operational perspective, these conditions mean increased demand for road maintenance crews if temperatures flirt with freezing during wet periods.
There is also a higher risk of wind-related debris on roads and trail systems.
Mid-to-late week outlook
The low pressure system departs, allowing conditions to moderate and clouds to thin as the week progresses.
Thursday through the weekend
Thursday should be a notable improvement with the low exiting the region. Expect partly sunny skies and a rebound to the low to mid-50s.
Friday and much of the weekend look pleasant and slightly warmer. This offers a window for outdoor activities.
Cloud cover and the chance for rain may return Sunday night into early next week. Keep an eye on updated forecasts if you have plans late in the weekend.
Practical tips: secure loose outdoor items before Tuesday’s gusty winds. Dress in layers to handle the sharp wind chill.
Plan outdoor travel around the Tuesday afternoon light rain if possible.
Here is the source article for this story: A cold, windy and rainy Tuesday ahead