Hazardous weather conditions are expected in Cook County and Grand Portage today, February 27, 2026. According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Duluth, a fast-moving cold front is bringing a combination of high winds and potential snow squalls to the region. The NWS said that these strong winds will begin late this morning and persist into the early overnight hours.

A High Wind Warning has been issued for southern Cook County, noting that gusts could reach 60 mph, with peak intensity in the late afternoon and evening. A Wind Advisory is in effect for northern Cook County. Both the warning and advisory will begin at 12 p.m. on Friday through 12 a.m. on Saturday. 

In addition to the wind, the NWS said there is a risk for snow squalls this afternoon into the mid-evening, particularly along the Canadian border. These squalls can cause sudden, dramatic drops in visibility to a quarter-mile or less and lead to quick, light snow accumulations. 

Another concern is the potential for a "flash freeze." As temperatures drop rapidly behind the passing cold front, any wet road surfaces may freeze instantly, creating potentially hazardous driving conditions as roads quickly become snow-covered and icy.