Weather is such a huge factor for Grandma's Marathon week, though "good weather" means different things to different people that are taking part in the week's festivities. While spectators would be perfectly happy with dry and warm conditions, runners of the three race events would prefer cooler weather, and fog or a mist aren't necessarily bad things either.

It is still a little too far out to get a good look at exactly what to expect on the Friday and Saturday of Grandma's Marathon Weekend, but we are getting suggestions from longer-range models suggesting the chance of above average temperatures creeping into the region for race week.

As you can see in the graphic below (from the Sioux Falls National Weather Service office - yes, I know its Sioux Falls, but the forecast graphic is still accurate), "above normal" temperatures will be in place over almost all of Minnesota, including the Duluth area for next week.

It's worth noting a few things, however. First off, "average" daytime high temperature for race day (June 16) in Canal Park is 65 degrees with an average low temperature of 47 degrees. Factoring that in, even a 10-degree bump in temperature is still sub-80 degrees during the day. As of right now, the extended forecast shows temperatures in the low 70s to start marathon week, heading into the upper 70s for the end of the week. Not ideal for runners, but still not sweltering heat. Plus, a lot can change between now and then in the forecast, as anyone knows that lives around here.

Second, maps like these show general trends and don't factor certain specific factors that might come into play. Things like Lake Superior (and a lake breeze, if we get one during this time frame) could spell chilly conditions along the race course and significantly warmer conditions on top the hill.

The key takeaway from this information is runners might want to begin mentally preparing for the chance of warmer conditions for race day, though we won't start to get much of a snapshot of details for at least a few more days. As always, forecasts become more reliable the closer to the forecast date you get, so consider early forecasts more of loose interpretation for preparation than a clear prediction of exactly what to expect.

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