Thunder Bay began Wednesday with smoky skies and two Environment and Climate Change Canada alerts in effect: a Yellow Heat Warning and a Yellow Air Quality Warning. At 7:00 a.m. EDT the temperature was 19.2°C, with visibility reduced to 4 km due to smoke.
Current conditions and short-term forecast
Early-morning observations showed a dew point of 11.8°C, relative humidity at 62 percent, west winds at 10 km/h and rising barometric pressure of 101.9 kPa. The day is expected to start sunny before becoming a mix of sun and cloud this afternoon. Winds are forecast to shift to the north at 20 km/h, gusting to 40 km/h, and the daytime high should reach about 28°C. The UV index is rated 9 (very high).
| Observation | Value |
|---|---|
| Time | 7:00 a.m. EDT |
| Temperature | 19.2°C |
| Dew point | 11.8°C |
| Humidity | 62% |
| Wind | W 10 km/h (becoming N 20 km/h gusting 40 km/h) |
| Visibility | 4 km (smoke) |
| Pressure | 101.9 kPa and rising |
Alerts and health guidance
Both warnings are flagged at an impact level: Moderate with high forecast confidence. The heat warning notes maximum temperatures near 29°C and overnight lows between 17°C and 20°C, but is expected to end this evening as a cooler, less humid air mass moves in. The air-quality warning advises that wildfire smoke is causing reduced visibility and poor air quality, and that impacts could persist into Thursday in some areas.
"Smoke can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, and mild coughing."
The advisory highlights that more severe symptoms, such as wheezing or chest pain, can occur and that people experiencing medical emergencies should seek immediate help. Those most likely to be affected include seniors, pregnant people, infants and young children, people with chronic health issues and outdoor workers.
Practical precautions for Thunder Bay residents
- Avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the warmest, smokiest parts of the day.
- Limit time near heavy smoke and seek cleaner indoor air when possible.
- Keep medications and emergency plans ready for people with respiratory or cardiac conditions.
- Workers should consult employers about altered schedules or protective measures.
- Use sun protection today: the UV index is very high.
Tonight is expected to be clearer, with only local pockets of smoke, as cooler northwest winds arrive. Residents should monitor updates from Environment and Climate Change Canada and local public-health advisories for any changes to warnings or specific recommendations.
