Prairie Heatwave Keeps the Thermometer High Through Midweek
DRYDEN – WEATHER REPORT – The sizzling heatwave continues to bake Dryden and Vermilion Bay, as the Heat Warning from Environment Canada remains in effect until Wednesday night. With daytime highs reaching into the low 30s and nights barely dropping below 17°C, residents are enduring a rare May heat event that has both air conditioners and fans working overtime.
From Sunrise Heat to Late-Night Mugginess: Forecast Breakdown
At 5:00 AM CDT, Dryden Airport recorded clear skies and an already balmy 18.7°C. The dew point is a dry 2.2°C, and humidity is sitting at a parched 33%, giving the early morning air a hot, desert-like feel. Winds are from the south at 21 km/h, gusting to 35 km/h, pushing warm prairie air directly into the region. Pressure is holding at 100.4 kPa, suggesting stable—but sweltering—conditions ahead.
Today will see clear, sunny skies with winds becoming south at 30 km/h and gusting to 50 km/h this morning. The high will climb to a blistering 31°C, with a humidex of 33 making it feel even more intense. The UV index is pegged at 8—very high—so sun safety is non-negotiable, even during the lunch hour.
Tonight will remain clear, with winds easing to light overnight, but the heat will persist with a low of 17°C—far above seasonal averages.
Wednesday will start sunny, but by the afternoon, expect a mix of sun and cloud along with a 40 percent chance of showers and the risk of an afternoon thunderstorm. Temperatures will again reach 31°C, with a humidex of 32 and the UV index holding at 8. Wednesday night will finally offer a clearer sky and a more tolerable low of 15°C.
Thursday will bring some relief with a mix of sun and cloud and a 30 percent chance of showers, with a more manageable high of 27°C. Showers are expected to move in fully Thursday night with a low of 14°C.
Friday will feel dramatically cooler as clouds and a 40 percent chance of showers dominate the forecast, with highs struggling to reach 16°C. The night will remain cloudy with the same 40 percent chance of showers and a chilly low of 4°C—yes, you read that right: 4°C.
Safety First in the Dryden Heat
Residents are reminded to keep cool, stay hydrated, and avoid prolonged sun exposure during peak afternoon hours. Lightweight, light-coloured, and breathable clothing is a must, and seeking shade or air-conditioned spaces will help avoid heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Keep an eye on vulnerable individuals, and, as always, ensure no one is left inside parked vehicles.
Dryden’s May 13 Weather Records
Dryden’s record high for today is 31.5°C, while the record low is -3.3°C. With today’s forecast high right on the edge of that record, this heat event is pushing the boundaries of what locals expect in May.
Dryden Heatwave Trivia
Did you know? Dryden’s inland location makes it especially vulnerable to sudden, intense heat events when southerly winds sweep in from the prairies. While the surrounding lakes might tempt you for a dip, don’t let the cool water fool you—heat exhaustion can sneak up on you fast during weather events like this.
