Special Air Quality Statement Issued as Wildfire Smoke Lingers
Friday Dawns with Haze and Health Cautions
Dryden, ON – Friday, May 30, 2025: A smoky sunrise greets residents across Dryden and Vermilion Bay this morning, with a Special Air Quality Statement in effect due to wildfire smoke. As of 6:00 AM CDT at Dryden Airport, the temperature sits at 13.3°C, with humidity at 67%, and a dew point of 7.4°C. Winds are currently from the west-northwest at 8 km/h, and visibility is reduced to just 5 km due to the haze blanketing the area. Pressure is at 101.1 kPa and holding steady, but unfortunately, so is the smoke.
Today’s Forecast: Hazy Heat and Bright Skies
Expect skies to clear out this morning, but the sunshine will be filtered through a smoky veil. Local smoke will remain persistent throughout the day, reducing air quality and making outdoor activity less than ideal. The high will climb to 26°C, with a UV index of 8 – very high. That means you’ll need sunscreen and a respirator mask if you plan to venture outdoors for long.
Winds will shift to the northeast at 20 km/h this morning, which may move the smoke around but likely won’t clear it entirely. Limit physical exertion, especially if you’re in a sensitive group — and that includes everyone from seniors to little ones, outdoor workers, and those with heart or respiratory conditions.
Friday Night: Smoke Settles in Under Clear Skies
Tonight remains clear, but smoke will linger, and air quality will remain a concern. The overnight low dips to a cooler 10°C, but without any significant breeze or precipitation to disperse the smoke, it’s another night to keep windows closed and the air purifier humming.
Weekend Outlook: Heat Holds, Haze Lingers
Saturday continues the hazy trend with local smoke expected, especially in the morning. Skies will be sunny to start, becoming a mix of sun and cloud as the day progresses. The high will reach 25°C, accompanied again by a very high UV index of 8.
Saturday night is clear, with temperatures cooling to 8°C — still ideal for camping or cottage escapes, if smoke levels permit.
Sunday looks beautiful on paper with sunny skies and a high of 28°C, though smoke is again likely to make an appearance. Overnight temperatures will remain warm at 16°C, signalling the early arrival of summer warmth — just without the clean air.
Air Quality Health Tips
With wildfire smoke continuing to affect visibility and air quality, it’s important to stay informed and take precautions:
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Stay indoors with windows and doors closed as much as possible.
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Use high-quality air filters or certified air purifiers.
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If you need to go outside, wear a well-fitted N95 respirator to reduce your exposure.
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Reduce or reschedule strenuous outdoor activity, especially during smoky peaks.
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Check in on vulnerable neighbours or loved ones, particularly the elderly or those with health issues.
What to Wear?
It’s a bit of a paradox: warm weather begs for shorts and T-shirts, but smoky conditions call for protective masks and minimal outdoor time. Keep outfits light and breathable, but make sure you’re prepared with a mask, hat, and sunscreen if stepping out.
Weather Trivia: Why So Smoky?
Dryden’s proximity to forested regions and prevailing wind patterns means smoke from nearby and even distant wildfires often collects here. High-pressure systems in spring and summer can trap this smoke close to the ground, worsening air quality significantly — just like we’re seeing today.
