Free AC, dangerous swimming in Lake Superior

AC units may get a break across Minnesota later today. A temporary infusion of cooler and drier air from Canada oozes south into Minnesota for the next 48 hours. You may even be tempted to sleep with the windows open tonight.

Enjoy the respite. The heat and humidity returns this weekend with a vengeance.

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All about that dew point

Ever wonder why you feel so sweaty even when it's not 90 degree out there? I always tell Minnesotans to watch the dew point, not the humidity.

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NOAA

You'll notice dew points gradually falling by this evening. Good sleeping weather tonight?

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Weatherspark-Euro output

The heat and humidity return next weekend. Saturday looks like it could potentially be the hottest day so far of 2105. I hesitate to say it will be the hottest day of the year at this point with August and the traditional Sate Fair heat wave potentially still lurking.

Dangerous rip currents in Lake Superior

This may not be the best day for those brave enough to dip into cold waters on Park Point Beach near Duluth. Northeast winds and waves will likely create some dangerous rip currents.

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The Duluth NWS has issued a beach hazards statement on the potential for rip currents today.

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Duluth NWS

How to spot a rip current?

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NOAA

Here's more from NOAA on how to spot, and survive rip currents.

  • Help NWS improve it's rip current safety messaging. Take a short survey about rip currents and beach safety developed by Texas A&M

  • Check water conditions before going in by looking at the local beach forecast before you leave for the beach and talking to the lifeguard at the beach.

  • Only swim at a beach with lifeguards. The chances of drowning at a beach with lifeguards are 1 in 18 million (U.S. Lifesaving Association).

  • Don't assume! Great weather for the beach does not always mean it's safe to swim or even play in the shallows. Rip currents often form on calm, sunny days.

  • Learn how to spot a rip current. The Break the Grip of the Rip free online training will help you learn how to spot a rip current.

  • What are scientists doing to keep swimmers safer? Find out in this video: Predict the Rip

  • Rip currents aren't the only deadly beach hazard. Learn more about dangerous waves and other hazards and why you should never to turn your back on the ocean.

 

Lake Superior waters still chilly for swimming

Surface water is getting warmer in Lake Superior with 50s and 60s showing up along the North Shore, but it's still chilly for most swimmers.

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NOAA

Be safe out there!