Special Air Quality Statement Issued as Wildfire Smoke Lingers Over the Region
A Smoky Start to a Summer-Style Friday
Fort Frances, ON – Friday, May 30, 2025: The day kicks off warm but hazy in the Fort Frances–Rainy River region as wildfire smoke continues to impact air quality. A Special Air Quality Statement remains in effect, warning of reduced visibility and potential health risks, especially for vulnerable groups.
At 6:00 AM CDT, the temperature sits at 12.3°C, with a dew point of 7.3°C, and humidity at 72%—a muggy start under hazy skies. Winds are light from the west at 9 km/h, and the barometric pressure is 101.2 kPa and falling, setting the stage for a hot and smoky day.
Forecast: A Sizzling and Smoky Friday
Today’s forecast calls for sunshine all day, but that bright sun will shine through a veil of local wildfire smoke. Winds will shift to the west at 20 km/h early this morning, then ramp up to north at 30 km/h, gusting to 50, by late morning. While these breezes may stir the air, they won’t clear the smoke entirely.
Temperatures will soar to a high of 28°C, with a UV index of 8 – very high, so if you must head outdoors, make sure you’re wearing sunscreen and a well-fitted mask. It’s a two-pronged weather day: protect your skin and your lungs.
Tonight: Clear Skies, But Smoke Lingers
Overnight will be clear but smoky, with a low of 12°C. Winds from the north at 20 km/h will ease into a light breeze late in the evening, but unfortunately, that means smoke could settle closer to ground level again overnight. Keep windows closed, especially if you or your family are sensitive to air quality issues.
Looking Ahead: Hazy Weekend with a Chance of Showers
Saturday will offer a mix of sunshine and clouds, with a 30% chance of showers late in the afternoon—a hopeful development, as any moisture would help ease fire conditions. Local smoke remains in the forecast, however, so even outdoor plans for farmers’ markets or lake days should come with a backup plan. High temperatures will again flirt with 27°C, with a very high UV index.
Saturday night will be clear with a low of 10°C, leading into a scorching Sunday, with bright sun and a high of 29°C. The heat keeps building into next week, but without substantial rain in the forecast, fire danger ratings will remain high or extreme.
Health First: How to Cope with the Smoke
Residents are strongly encouraged to:
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Stay indoors as much as possible with windows and doors closed.
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Use portable air cleaners or HVAC filters if available.
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Avoid strenuous outdoor activity, especially if you’re elderly, pregnant, a child, or managing a chronic condition.
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Wear a NIOSH-approved N95 mask if outdoor exposure is necessary.
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Check in on neighbours, especially those in sensitive groups.
What to Wear?
Plan for summer attire — shorts, light fabrics, and breathable layers — but don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, and if outdoors for long, a respirator mask. It’s not your average beach weather with smoke in the mix.
Fort Frances Weather Trivia
Did you know Fort Frances holds the record for the highest temperature ever recorded in Ontario in May? Back in 1969, the town hit 37.8°C! While we’re not going quite that high today, the combination of heat and haze still makes for some record-worthy discomfort.
