Summer Comes Early – But So Does Widespread Smoke
A Warm, Cloudy Morning Turns Into a Scorcher
Winnipeg, MB – Friday, May 30, 2025: The day begins under cloudy skies with a current temperature of 11.2°C at 6:00 AM, recorded at Winnipeg Richardson International Airport. Humidity is at 69%, giving the air a bit of moisture, and the dew point sits at 5.7°C — a comfortable range, but that won’t last. A light westerly breeze at 11 km/h is already hinting at a wind shift that’ll bring both sunshine and smoke into play. Barometric pressure is on the rise at 101.3 kPa, but the clear skies won’t come clean — they’re hazy.
Sunny, Smoky, and 30°C: A True Prairie Inferno
Today’s forecast calls for sunny skies and hazy conditions throughout the day, thanks to wildfire smoke drifting into southern Manitoba. Temperatures will soar to 30°C, making it feel more like July than May. If you’re thinking of taking advantage of the heat, remember: the UV index is 9 — very high. So lather on the sunscreen and hydrate like it’s your new full-time job.
By mid-morning, winds will shift to the northwest at 20 km/h, helping to clear out the clouds but also fanning more smoke into the region. Visibility is currently good at 24 km, but don’t be surprised if that drops later today and especially overnight.
Tonight: Haze Turns to Widespread Smoke
Tonight, expect a few clouds and hazy skies early, but widespread smoke will settle in as winds continue from the northwest at 20 km/h, gusting up to 40 km/h. It’s shaping up to be a smoky night with a warm low of 16°C. If you have respiratory sensitivities, this is your cue to keep windows shut and air purifiers humming.
Saturday: Still Smoky, Still Hot
Saturday brings more of the same, with widespread smoke across the region. The high once again hits 30°C, with a humidex of 31, making it feel even toastier. Northwest winds at 20 km/h will do little to freshen the air. The sun will be blazing, but the view will be muted.
Saturday night clears up with a low of 14°C, but smoke may linger into the evening depending on wind conditions.
Sunday: The Heat Turns Up to 33°C
Sunday cranks up the thermostat with sunny skies and a high of 33°C. While no smoke is specifically forecast, don’t be surprised if there’s still a hazy curtain in the air given regional wildfire activity. Nightfall brings cloudy periods, but no rain relief is in sight.
What to Wear and Be Aware Of
Today and this weekend, think full summer mode: shorts, tank tops, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen. But don’t overlook the health risks of smoke exposure. If you’re planning a run, a barbecue, or any long outdoor activity, check on local air quality levels and consider wearing an N95 mask. Sensitive groups — including children, seniors, and anyone with heart or lung conditions — should keep indoor plans ready.
Historical Highs and Lows for May 30
Winnipeg has seen some sizzling May days before, with a record high of 34.4°C and a record low of 0.6°C for this date. Today’s expected high of 30°C isn’t breaking records — but it’s certainly turning heads.
Weather Trivia: Winnipeg’s Smoky Summers
Did you know Winnipeg experiences an average of 15 days each year with reduced visibility from wildfire smoke? Most of them happen in July and August — so this May event is early and unusual, a smoky signal of a dry season ahead.
