Over the past three weeks, far northern Minnesota has experienced a shift to a wetter pattern, with several rain events resulting in precipitation ranging from 100% to nearly 200% of normal since July 21. In contrast, southern areas have remained much drier during the same period, receiving only 2% to 20% of their typical rainfall.
Precipitation is expected to be minimal through this weekend, with isolated showers possible on Wednesday.
A more organized low-pressure system is forecast to traverse the region on Saturday; however, rainfall totals are anticipated to remain modest, generally around a quarter inch or less, with localized areas potentially receiving slightly higher amounts.
Average temperatures across the Northland this month have remained near normal, generally within 0.5 to 1 degree, as we move into the final weeks of summer 2026.
So far this month, Duluth has experienced only one day with temperatures at or above 80°F, compared to the August average of seven such days.
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Here’s the forecast for Saturday: a low-pressure system will move east from the northern Plains, potentially bringing some rain to the Northland. Currently, it doesn’t appear to be a significant event, and with minimal instability expected, any thunderstorm activity should be limited, if it occurs at all.
Hazy skies from wildfire smoke will continue across the Northland tonight and Wednesday, with conditions likely improving slightly by Thursday. Most of the smoke is expected to remain aloft, resulting in minimal impact at ground level.
HRRR model’s vertically integrated smoke forecast through 1 PM on Thursday.
Over the past few days, severe weather has been widespread, with damaging winds and large hail posing the greatest threats, and a few tornadoes also reported.
On Monday, severe weather hit the Ohio Valley and Mid-Atlantic, with scattered reports in the southeast, High Plains, and Arizona.
Severe weather today (Tuesday) affected regions from the Midwest to the Ohio Valley, with winds reaching 80 to 90 mph in some areas.
Here’s an overview of today’s severe weather, highlighted by a derecho—a powerful, damaging wind event—moving southeast across parts of the Midwest and Ohio Valley.
MRMS 12-hour radar loop for Tuesday, August 11, 2026, from 5:54 AM to 5:54 PM CT.
