Hazy Conditions Persist Sunday Before Clearing Skies Bring a Breath of Fresh Air
Wildfire Smoke from Manitoba Clouds an Otherwise Sunny Forecast for Kenora
KENORA – WEATHER UPDATE – Sunday, May 25, 2025 – A beautiful sunny day is brewing in Kenora, but wildfire smoke is writing a hazier story over Lake of the Woods and nearby communities. A Special Air Quality Statement remains in effect this morning for Kenora, Grassy Narrows, and Whitedog due to smoke drifting in from active fires burning in Manitoba.
At 6:00 AM CDT, conditions at the Kenora Airport were partly cloudy with a temperature of 5.7°C, feeling a bit brisk for a late May morning. Winds are calm from the south-southeast at 5 km/h, and humidity is sitting at a moderate 79%. Barometric pressure is at 102.6 kPa and rising, a hopeful sign of improving weather conditions.
Visibility is holding strong at 32 km for now, but don’t be fooled—local smoke will continue to impact air quality throughout the day, with the potential for worsening conditions by this evening before a westward shift clears the air on Monday.
Today’s forecast calls for sunny skies becoming a mix of sun and cloud this afternoon, with temperatures climbing to a warm high of 23°C. The UV index is 6, which is considered high, so sun protection is still a must, even behind the haze.
Tonight remains mostly clear, with a few clouds and continued local smoke, and a mild low of 10°C.
Looking ahead to Monday, Kenora will bask in sunshine once again, with a high of 25°C. Expect a few clouds to mix in by the afternoon. The air should feel significantly fresher as smoke clears to the west. Monday night stays comfortable with clear skies and a low of 13°C. Tuesday continues the warm streak with sunny skies and another high of 25°C, followed by cloudy periods overnight and another 13°C low.
Health Alert: Protect Yourself from Wildfire Smoke
Wildfire smoke contains fine particulate matter that can pose serious health risks, especially for seniors, young children, people with chronic conditions, pregnant individuals, and those who work outdoors. Symptoms can include eye, nose, and throat irritation, coughing, and headaches, and in more severe cases, wheezing or chest pain. If you experience any serious symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.
Health Tips:
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Limit time outdoors, especially during the smoky evening hours.
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Keep windows and doors closed.
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Use a certified HEPA air filter or portable air cleaner indoors.
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Consider wearing a well-fitting N95 mask outdoors for added protection.
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Check in on vulnerable neighbours or family members.
Wardrobe Suggestion
With a cool morning and a warm afternoon ahead, dressing in layers is your best bet. Sunglasses and sunscreen are a must, but toss in a respirator mask if you’re heading outside for extended periods—Kenora’s sunshine is a bit smoky today.
Weather Trivia: Smoke Signals from Space
Did you know? On satellite imagery, wildfire smoke plumes can travel hundreds of kilometres and even cross provincial and national borders. In 2002, smoke from massive British Columbia fires drifted all the way to the Maritime provinces—Mother Nature’s own version of a long-distance message!
