Gale Season Has Returned With Fury To Lake Superior

This weekend felt like the middle of August in the Northland, with highs in the 80s. Now, a Lake Superior gale has blown whatever remnants of summer away. My vehicle shook while driving over the Blatnik Bridge this morning from the high winds. You can really tell when it's gusting over 40 mph because it feels like the wind grabs your steering wheel.

It's been a while since I've seen the rolling waves at Canal Park, so I drove down to the lift bridge to witness the mighty Gitchegumee. Video and pictures don't do it justice; you really have to witness it yourself. The horizon rolls with the waves, and waves break over the walkway to the lighthouse along the Aerial Lift Bridge.

Ken Hayes

I was surprised they hadn't closed the gate yet for walking out to the end. I expect that if the wind picks up even just a little, they'll have to close it down for safety so tourists don't get swept into the canal.

The National Weather Service has a gale warning in effect until 7 pm tonight for parts of the North Shore. Some wave heights have been recorded over 10 feet. I suspect they are even higher after witnessing the lake up close.

The marine forecast for Apostle Islands calls for waves up to 15 feet!

The wind will continue all day, with gusts up to 35 knots (40 mph) until this evening. So, if you want to witness it up close, get out there this afternoon and dress warmly. Our first gale of fall is a blustery Nor'easter, and Lake Superior is putting on quite the show.