Thick Smoke Over Manitoba: Health Risk Remains High Today in Kenora, Winnipeg

KENORA / WINNIPEG – An Air Quality Warning remains in effect due to dense wildfire smoke across the Red River Valley, including Winnipeg and parts of northwestern Ontario including Kenora and Lake of the Woods.

Smoke has led to very poor air quality and reduced visibility, and will remain a health concern through tonight, particularly for vulnerable populations. Conditions are expected to improve Friday morning, but precautions are crucial in the meantime.

Cottage country in the Lake of the Woods region is likely to be impacted by smoke.

Today’s Weather Overview

Current Conditions

As of 6:00 AM CDT, Winnipeg Richardson International Airport is reporting smoky skies and very limited visibility (10 km). The temperature is a chilly 4.8°C, with 88% humidity and a light northeast wind at 7 km/h. Barometric pressure sits at 101.9 kPa and rising, indicating stable weather but continued smoke entrapment near the surface.

In Kenora, similar conditions are expected, with widespread smoke, calm to light winds, and reduced air quality. The current temperature is around 5°C, and the area will also see smoke linger throughout the day and into tonight.

Expect highs near 23°C in Winnipeg and Kenora today under hazy and smoke-filled skies. The UV index remains high at 7, though the haze may reduce direct exposure. Be cautious about sun safety even when skies appear grey.

Tomorrow’s Forecast

Expected Conditions

Friday, June 6: Sunshine returns to both Winnipeg and Kenora, but smoke will lift gradually through the morning. Expect improving air quality by midday. Temperatures will rise to 26°C in Winnipeg (with a humidex of 27) and 24°C in Kenora. Winds will pick up from the southwest at 20 km/h in the afternoon. UV index remains high at 7.

Friday Night: Partly cloudy with a mild low of 17°C in Winnipeg and around 15°C in Kenora.

Saturday, June 7: A shift to wetter weather. Showers and breezy conditions are expected, with highs around 25°C. More consistent rainfall continues into Sunday.

Sunday, June 8: Showers continue with cooler temperatures — high near 16°C, and overnight lows near 11°C.

Health Advisory & Safety Guidelines

A Special Air Quality Warning is in place. Wildfire smoke contains fine particulate matter (PM2.5) that can deeply penetrate the lungs and aggravate existing health conditions.

Who is at higher risk:

• Seniors

• Pregnant people

• Infants and young children

• Individuals with asthma, COPD, or heart conditions

• Outdoor workers

What to do:

• Stay indoors with windows and doors closed.

• Use air purifiers or HEPA filters to improve indoor air quality.

• Avoid strenuous activity outdoors — reschedule or cancel outdoor events.

• If you must go outside, wear a well-fitted N95 or equivalent respirator.

• Check on vulnerable neighbors or family members.

• Seek medical attention if you experience symptoms such as persistent cough, wheezing, or chest tightness.

Wardrobe Recommendations

• Today: Layer up for the cool start but prepare for warm conditions later. A mask may be necessary outdoors to reduce smoke exposure.

• Friday: Summer clothing is appropriate with improved air quality. Sunglasses and sunscreen recommended.

• Saturday: Keep a waterproof layer and windbreaker handy with expected showers.

Weather Trivia

Did you know?
The Red River Valley is particularly prone to air stagnation events due to its flat geography. With little elevation change and weak atmospheric mixing, smoke from distant wildfires can linger for days, especially under high-pressure systems — as seen today.