FORT FRANCES – Residents of Fort Frances, Atikokan, and Rainy River are waking up to a chilly morning under quiet skies. But the weather won’t stay still for long — a gusty westerly wind is expected to sweep through the region today, bringing warmer temperatures and a slight chance of afternoon showers. Local smoke is also expected to make a return by evening.

Today’s Weather Overview

Current Conditions

As of 6:00 AM CDT, the temperature in Fort Frances is a brisk 3.2°C, making it the coolest start among northwestern Ontario communities today. Humidity is high at 95%, with dew point at 2.4°C, suggesting light fog or heavy dew in some areas. Winds are currently calm, and barometric pressure is rising at 101.4 kPa, indicating stabilizing weather in the short term.

Although early conditions weren’t directly observed, sunshine is forecast through the morning and early afternoon, followed by a mix of sun and cloud and a 30% chance of showers late in the day. Winds will become a factor, picking up from the west at 30 km/h with gusts reaching 50 km/h.

The afternoon will warm significantly, with a high of 22°C expected. The UV index will climb to 7, categorized as high, so sun protection is recommended.

Tomorrow’s Forecast

Expected Conditions

Thursday, June 5: Expect sunny skies overall, though local smoke will hang over the region during the morning hours. Winds will again strengthen, becoming north at 20 km/h gusting to 40. Daytime high will reach 23°C, and the UV index remains at 7 (high).

Thursday Night: Skies will remain clear, with an overnight low of 9°C.

Friday, June 6: A continued mix of sun and cloud is expected, with a 30% chance of showers. Daytime high near 23°C.

Friday Night: Cloudy periods with a 30% chance of showers. Low dips to 11°C.

Saturday, June 7: The weekend kicks off warm and breezy with a 40% chance of showers, and a high of 25°C. Winds will increase noticeably during the day.

Saturday Night: Cloudy skies persist with a 60% chance of showers, and an overnight low of 12°C.

Wardrobe Recommendations

• Today: Start your morning in a warm jacket — it’s quite cool. By afternoon, switch to lighter layers. Sunglasses and sunscreen are essential with the high UV index, and sensitive individuals may want to carry a face covering due to smoke in the evening.

• Thursday: Dress for a warm, sunny day with breathable clothing and UV protection. Mornings may require a light jacket.

• Friday and Saturday: Plan for variable weather — keep a rain jacket handy and dress in layers to adapt to passing showers and breezy conditions.

Weather Trivia

Did you know?
Fort Frances has recorded one of the largest annual temperature ranges in Ontario, with temperatures historically plunging below –40°C in winter and soaring above 35°C in summer. That’s over 75 degrees of variation! Today’s climb from 3°C in the morning to over 22°C by afternoon highlights the swift and dramatic shifts typical of this region.