Lake Superior dominates our weather in Northeastern Minnesota. As I left home this morning wind advisories were posted … 60 mph wind gusts! Given the horrible weather of late I really wanted to spend some time outside. Thus, I turned inland at Two Harbors which was a horrible idea. Although nice and sunny down at Lake Superior, the strong winds off Lake Superior generated plenty of rain just 25 miles inland (approximately a 1,500 foot climb from the lakeshore). Anyhow, winds exceeding 50 mph plus rain out my hiking plans on hold. I turned around and drove back down the the lake … and sunshine.

In Two Harbors, assuming one could find protected areas, there were a few birds. This Rough Legged Hawk was using two different signs next to the road as hunting platforms. The advantage of both of these signs was they were only 15 yards from the forest’s edge, and thus a bit protected from the fierce wind.

I also checked out the Two Harbors Campground and found some snow buntings also working their way south from the Arctic.

I did take a short hike out onto Lighthouse Point. It was reasonably protected from the wind while receiving the morning sunshine. I was also wearing ski goggles which allowed me to see in the blustery conditions. It’s now time to go check the roof of my house. A large dead, but rotten tree fell onto the roof. I was not willing to get on a ladder to climb up onto the roof to check if there is any damage till the wind died down some.