Wildfire Smoke Lingers as Beautiful Spring Weather Rolls In
Fort Frances, Red Gut First Nation, Mine Centre and Seine River Start the Day with Chill, Calm Conditions and a Caution for Air Quality
FORT FRANCES – WEATHER – Sunday, May 25, 2025 – A calm and cool Sunday morning greets Fort Frances and surrounding communities like Red Gut First Nation, Mine Centre, and Seine River. But despite the promise of sunny skies and warming temperatures, a Special Air Quality Statement remains in effect due to wildfire smoke drifting in from neighbouring Manitoba.
At 6:00 AM CDT, conditions were quiet but concerning. The temperature sat at 1.7°C, with the dew point close behind at 0.8°C, giving us a very moist 93% humidity. Winds are calm, and barometric pressure is rising at 102.7 kPa, signalling a stable and pleasant day ahead—aside from the air quality issues. Visibility has not been officially observed, but haze is likely in smoke-affected areas.
Today’s forecast calls for a mix of sun and cloud transitioning to full sunshine, but local smoke will remain present, especially this morning and again late tonight. Temperatures will climb to a pleasant high of 21°C, with a UV index of 6, so don’t forget the sunscreen despite the haze.
Tonight, skies remain clear, but smoke lingers in the evening hours. Overnight lows will remain mild at 9°C.
Looking Ahead: Sunshine with a Side of Smoke-Free Air
Monday is shaping up beautifully with sunshine in the morning giving way to a mix of sun and cloud by the afternoon, and a slightly warmer high of 23°C. Expect clear skies Monday night with a low of 10°C.
Tuesday brings more springlike weather with a mix of sun and cloud and a high of 22°C, though cloud cover increases Tuesday night with a low holding steady at 10°C.
The good news? Smoke is expected to move westward out of the region by Monday morning, offering a literal breath of fresh air to start the week.
Health Advisory: Take the Smoke Seriously
The wildfire smoke is expected to create poor air quality and reduced visibility, especially in areas close to the Manitoba border. This includes Fort Frances, Emo, and Rainy River, where the smoke may worsen again this evening before easing by Monday.
Health effects from wildfire smoke can include eye and throat irritation, coughing, headaches, and in some cases, wheezing or chest pain. Those most at risk—young children, seniors, pregnant individuals, people with chronic health conditions, and outdoor workers—should limit outdoor exposure, reschedule strenuous activities, and monitor symptoms closely.
Tips for Staying Safe:
-
Stay indoors and keep windows and doors closed.
-
Use HEPA filters or air purifiers if available.
-
Avoid strenuous outdoor activity.
-
If you must go outside, wear a properly fitted N95 respirator.
Check in on your neighbours, especially those more vulnerable to air pollution, and follow local public health advice.
Wardrobe Suggestion
Start your day with a warm jacket—it’s brisk this morning—but swap it out for spring wear by midday. Sunglasses are a good idea, and for those sensitive to air quality, an N95 mask might be your accessory of choice.
Weather Trivia: Did You Know?
Fort Frances once reached a scorching 32.2°C on May 25 back in 1978—an extreme swing from today’s frosty start. With this region’s proximity to both prairie and boreal ecosystems, it’s not uncommon for Fort Frances to experience some of the wildest temperature shifts in Ontario during the spring.
