May Windchill: Chilly, Windy Fishing Opener But Rain Bypasses Northland
Storms, given a choice, PREFER to come on weekends, major holidays and the Minnesota Fishing Opener. Apparently this year will be no exception. Nearly half a million of us are getting ready to head out Saturday morning, and how foul the weather will be depends on which lake(s) you plan to fish.
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1). Weather models, including the European model (above) keep the bulk of the showers and thunderstorms south and west of the Twin Ports and Arrowhead, with a 2"+ soaking for southern Minnesota, but only a few light showers for the Northland.
2). Winds will be strong, gusting as high as 25-30 mph. Combine that with temperatures in the 40s and 50s, and you're going to need a heavy-duty jacket on your favorite lake. Almost parka-worthy. A serious walleye chop? You 'betcha!
3). Arrowhead and northern Wisconsin will be mostly-dry Saturday, but plan on more showers the farther south/west you go, toward the Brainerd Lakes.
I see a raw Saturday taking shape: waking up to 40s for much of the Northland with low 50s for the Brainerd Lakes area. I would take a heavy jacket, even a light parka with a hood for comfort.
A "High" of 52F at Duluth Saturday? That sounds about right, based on what I'm looking at, with a cruel wind blowing off Lake Superior, gusting close to 30 mph at times. Pass the Dramamine please.
Studying the maps and weather models I suspect Saturday will feel like something out of late March or early April, with a stiff east wind blowing off Lake Superior and a definite whiff of windchill.
The good news: it won't be pouring all day long Saturday.
The bad news: it will be windy, choppy and downright nippy out on your favorite lake. If you're dressed for (March) you should be fine, but plan on a chilly, wind-whipped day of fun.
Good luck out there!
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Gallery Credit: Ken Hayes
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