Heat, Haze, and Health Warnings as Wildfire Smoke Lingers Over Northwestern Ontario
Kenora, ON – The smell of smoke is back in the air across Kenora, Clearwater Bay, Grassy Narrows, and Whitedog First Nation as wildfire conditions worsen and a Special Air Quality Statement remains in effect. With extreme fire danger ratings, a return of dense smoke, and soaring temperatures, residents are urged to take precautions as the weather turns hot and hazardous.
Sunday: Heat and Haze Under Smoky Skies
As of 5:00 AM CDT, the temperature at Kenora Airport was 12.5°C under cloudy skies. Humidity sits at 49%, with light southeasterly winds at 9 km/h. Pressure is falling at 101.1 kPa, setting the scene for a hot and smoky day.
Today’s forecast calls for widespread smoke returning and lingering throughout the day. Winds will shift to the south at 20 km/h, pushing that smoke deeper into the region. The temperature will soar to 30°C, feeling more like 32°C with the humidex. The UV index is 9, considered very high — so even through haze, UV exposure remains a concern.
Visibility may fluctuate significantly, and air quality can deteriorate rapidly.
Special Air Quality Statement: What It Means
Smoke from wildfires in northern Manitoba and northwestern Ontario is reducing visibility and degrading air quality. The smoke is expected to remain in place for several days, and fire danger ratings remain high to extreme across the region.
Symptoms may include:
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Eye, nose, or throat irritation
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Headaches or mild coughing
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More serious symptoms such as wheezing, chest tightness, or severe coughing — especially in children, seniors, and those with pre-existing health conditions
If you must be outdoors, a NIOSH-certified N95 mask can help reduce exposure to smoke particles. Limit time outdoors, avoid intense activity, and check on vulnerable neighbours.
When indoors, keep windows and doors closed and use air purifiers or ventilation systems with clean filters. If there’s also a heat warning in effect, prioritize staying cool in air-conditioned spaces.
Tonight and Monday: Smoke Persists, Thunderstorm Risk Rises
Tonight will remain hazy with widespread smoke and a low of 18°C. Winds will shift again, becoming northerly by morning.
On Monday, June 2, the smoke continues under increasing clouds. There’s a 40 percent chance of showers by afternoon and a risk of a thunderstorm. Winds from the north will gust up to 40 km/h. The high will reach 25°C, with a humidex of 26. UV index drops slightly to 5.
Monday night remains unsettled with 60 percent chance of showers and a low of 11°C.
Tuesday and Beyond: A Breath of Fresh(er) Air
By Tuesday, skies will clear somewhat, with a mix of sun and cloud and a high of 23°C. Tuesday night will be clear with a mild low of 11°C. This may bring some temporary relief from the smoke if winds shift favourably.
Forest Fire Warning
The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry reports extreme forest fire danger ratings in parts of Northwestern Ontario. Campfire restrictions may be in place. Please follow all local fire bans and check before lighting any flames.
Wardrobe & Health Tips
Limit outdoor activity during smoky hours, especially midday when temperatures and UV levels peak. Lightweight clothing, sun protection, and staying hydrated are essential. Indoors, consider investing in a portable air purifier or checking your HVAC filter.
Weather Trivia: Did You Know?
Kenora experienced one of its worst wildfire smoke days in July 2021 when visibility dropped to just 1 km and AQHI levels reached “very high risk.” These smoky summers are becoming more common — and more dangerous.
