Wildfire Smoke Blankets Dryden-Vermilion Bay as Air Quality Declines

DRYDEN – A Special Air Quality Statement is in effect this morning for Dryden and Vermilion Bay due to widespread wildfire smoke that is reducing visibility and posing serious health risks, especially for vulnerable populations. Although skies are mainly sunny and warming, the air quality is poor, and residents are strongly encouraged to limit outdoor exposure.

Today’s Weather Overview

Current Conditions

At 6:00 AM CDT, Dryden Airport is reporting a temperature of 8.9°C under mainly sunny skies. The dew point is 4.7°C, with humidity at 75%, giving a fresh but slightly humid morning feel. Winds are from the west-northwest at 8 km/h, and visibility is reduced to 16 km due to the presence of thick smoke in the lower atmosphere.

Barometric pressure is 101.8 kPa and rising, suggesting continued stable but smoky conditions.

Through the day, skies will clear, but widespread smoke will persist. Winds will increase out of the west to 20 km/h, gusting up to 40 km/h later this morning. The high will reach 20°C, with a UV index of 6 (high) — sun protection is still important, even through haze.

Tomorrow’s Forecast

Expected Conditions

Friday, June 6: Expect sunny skies, becoming a mix of sun and cloud by late morning, with local smoke continuing to affect visibility and air quality. The high will rise to a warmer 23°C, with a UV index of 7 (high). Winds will remain light but may shift direction later in the day.

Friday Night: Cloudy periods with a 30% chance of showers and a mild low of 12°C.

Saturday, June 7: A continued mix of sun and cloud, with a 30% chance of showers and a high of 25°C.

Saturday Night: Showers are expected to develop more steadily, with a low of 12°C.

Sunday, June 8: Showers continue through the day, bringing cooler temperatures with a high of 15°C and a low of 10°C at night.

Health Advisory: Special Air Quality Statement

Smoke from wildfires is expected to linger across the region for the next several days. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in the smoke can pose serious health risks to everyone, particularly vulnerable groups.

Who is most at risk:

• Seniors

• Pregnant individuals

• Infants and young children

• People with chronic respiratory or heart conditions

• Outdoor workers

Precautionary Measures:

• Limit time outdoors, especially during physical activity

• Keep windows and doors closed

• Use a certified air purifier or HEPA filter indoors

• If going outside is unavoidable, wear a NIOSH-approved N95 mask

• Check on elderly or at-risk neighbors

• If you experience shortness of breath, chest pain, or severe cough, seek immediate medical care

Stay up to date at canada.ca/wildfire-smoke.

Wardrobe Recommendations

• Today: Dress in light layers for a cool start and mild afternoon. A mask is strongly recommended if spending time outdoors.

• Friday: Summer clothing is suitable, though keep a light jacket and air quality precautions in mind.

• Saturday: Plan for variable conditions — warm temperatures but possible afternoon and evening showers.

Weather Trivia

Did you know?
The Dryden region has experienced more smoke-filled days in June over the past five years than in the previous two decades combined. This rise is tied to increased wildfire activity across northwestern Ontario and the Prairies, often bringing smoke even when fires are hundreds of kilometres away.