Air Quality Warning: Smoke Persists Across Northern First Nations

BIG TROUT LAKE / KASABONIKA – A persistent blanket of wildfire smoke continues to impact communities across Big Trout Lake and Kasabonika, prompting an Air Quality Warning today. With cooler temperatures and overcast skies, air quality remains the primary concern. Smoke may linger for several more days, affecting visibility and public health. Residents are urged to take extra precautions to protect their respiratory health.

Today’s Weather Overview

Current Conditions

As of 6:00 AM CDT, Big Trout Lake Airport reports mostly cloudy skies and a temperature of 6.6°C. Humidity is at 85%, with a dew point of 4.2°C, contributing to a chilly and damp morning feel. Winds are moderate from the west-northwest at 17 km/h, and visibility is reduced to 16 km due to local smoke.

Barometric pressure is 101.4 kPa and rising, indicating slowly stabilizing conditions — but not enough to clear out lingering smoke.

The forecast calls for cloudy skies today with a 30% chance of showers this afternoon, which may offer some brief relief from the haze. The high will reach 15°C, and the UV index is 4 (moderate).

Tomorrow’s Forecast

Expected Conditions

Friday, June 6: A sunny day is expected, but local smoke will remain. The high will climb to a milder 21°C, and the UV index rises to 6 (high). Winds will be light to moderate, offering little help in clearing the air.

Friday Night: Cloudy periods with a 30% chance of showers and a low of 8°C.

Saturday, June 7: Skies remain cloudy with a 40% chance of showers, and temperatures will reach a high of 22°C.

Saturday Night and Sunday, June 8: Continued cloudy conditions with 40% chance of showers both nights and through Sunday. Low near 12°C Saturday night, and a high of 20°C on Sunday, with overnight lows around 9°C.

Health Advisory: Air Quality Warning

Due to ongoing wildfire smoke, air quality is poor and may pose risks even to healthy individuals.

Who is most at risk:

• Elders and seniors

• Children and infants

• Pregnant people

• People with asthma, COPD, or heart conditions

• Outdoor workers

What to do:

• Limit time outside, especially if you experience coughing, headaches, or difficulty breathing.

• Keep indoor air clean: Close windows and use HEPA filters or air purifiers.

• Wear an N95 mask if you must go outside.

• Check in on vulnerable community members.

Learn more at canada.ca/wildfire-smoke.

Wardrobe Recommendations

• Today: Wear a warm jacket or layered clothing for the cool, damp morning and mild afternoon. Keep a rain shell handy and wear a mask if outdoors for long periods.

• Friday: Dress in lighter clothing for a sunny day but stay smoke-aware — limit outdoor exertion and keep water on hand.

• Saturday–Sunday: Keep rain gear nearby as scattered showers are expected. Layers will help with fluctuating temperatures.

Weather Trivia

Did you know?
Communities like Kasabonika and Big Trout Lake are among the most frequently affected in Ontario during prolonged wildfire seasons due to their northern latitude and proximity to remote forest zones. With limited wind circulation and long summer days, smoke can stagnate over these areas for days without being cleared.