All Things Considered

North Shore locals reflect on hard hitting blizzard shutting down the area

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Mike Taylor, 47, a Duluth's Best Bread employee, shovels outside of the bakery Wednesday in Duluth, Minn. "I've been out here since 5 a.m.," Taylor said at around 9:30 in the morning. A blizzard warning is in effect for St. Louis and Carlton counties along the North Shore through noon of Thursday, Feb. 19 according to the National Weather Service. Up to 12 inches are expected in this region with wind gusts up 60 mph.
Erica Dischino for MPR News

Dozens of schools across central and northern Minnesota canceled classes for the day and many businesses have shut their doors to keep staff and customers off the road.

It’s one of the worst blizzards in recent memory to hit Minnesota’s North Shore. The region has seen more than a foot of snow and snow drifts from winds gusting over 60 mph.

WTIP Community Radio reporter Kalli Hawkins talked with MPR News host Clay Masters to describe how the winter storm has impacted the North Shore.

However, it's not all bad news for winter-dependent businesses like the outdoor specialty shop Northern Goods based in Grand Marais.

The general manager of Northern Goods, Kevin Hanson, expressed his gratitude for the snowfall — despite having to close his store or the day.

Use the audio player above to listen to the full conversation.