First fall storm of 2022 brings strong gales, slick road conditions

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With a strong low-pressure system entering the Northland, the Gales of November have been in full force along the shores of Lake Superior. While some surfed by Stoney Point, others went to Canal Park to watch the waves.

“Whenever we get a really windy day in the fall like this, I like to come stand and watch. Get wet,” said Duluthian Henry Vogel. “ I just think everybody should come see it and enjoy it. It’s an experience.” 

While the first fall storm of 2022 brought gusty winds and 8-10 foot waves by the head of the lake, the same system created slick road conditions further north.

“It started out pretty great. You know, nothing too crazy to start with,” said Rainy Lake One Stop Manager Laura Besch. “And then we had quite a slippery stretch when everyone was heading to work, which made it very tough for the morning commutes. Now we’re pretty much starting to see a lot of snow, a little bit of rain, sleet pellets, which are really making conditions slick certainly on the highway.”

The transition from rain to ice to snow made travel conditions more difficult.

“I guess we’re ready for winter, but we wish it would have come in a little better,” said Besch. “Balance versus the mix of it all.”

This snow also serves as a reminder for what’s to come

“People are going to put those snow scrapers back in the car, and try to get back in the swing of things. Everyone’s definitely put gas in their car because they’re not excited about tomorrow as well with the travel, obviously with more snow in the forecast and things,” said Besch. “So people are starting to become a little bit more prepared at this point, seeing what the forecast is going to bring.”

The latest road conditions, traffic cameras, and an interactive radar can be found here.