Smoke Advisory in Effect as Thunder Bay Enjoys a Mild, Sunny Day

THUNDER BAY – The skies are sunny over Thunder Bay this morning, but a Special Air Quality Statement remains in effect due to wildfire smoke drifting into the region. Though the air may feel fresh early in the day, local smoke will build this evening and widespread smoke is expected Friday, bringing health risks and visibility concerns to the forefront.

Residents should take steps to limit outdoor activity and protect indoor air quality during the smoky conditions. These alerts are important to observe, especially for area seniors, as many people have breathing issues as a result of decades of smoking, or working in the past without the proper PPE.

Those N95 masks we all used during COVID-19 are likely to come into use.

Today’s Weather Overview

Current Conditions

As of 8:00 AM EDT, Thunder Bay Airport reports sunny skies with a current temperature of 10.5°C, dew point at 6.5°C, and humidity at 76%. Winds are light from the west at 6 km/h, and visibility is excellent at 32 kilometres, though this may decline as smoke moves in.

Pressure is at 101.9 kPa and rising, suggesting stable weather conditions for the day — but unfortunately, these same calm conditions allow smoke to stagnate in the atmosphere.

Expect a mix of sun and cloud through the day, with winds becoming southerly at 20 km/h this afternoon. The high will reach 22°C, and the UV index is 7 – high, meaning sun protection is strongly recommended.

Tomorrow’s Forecast

Expected Conditions

Friday, June 6: Expect widespread smoke across Thunder Bay, reducing visibility and significantly impacting air quality. The high will be 20°C, with light winds and continued health concerns. The UV index remains at 7 (high) despite hazy skies.

Friday Night: Skies will feature cloudy periods, and there’s a 30% chance of showers, with a low of 7°C.

Saturday, June 7: A mix of sun and cloud is expected, with a 30% chance of showers and a high near 22°C.

Saturday Night: Continued cloud cover with a 30% chance of showers, and a low of 10°C.

Sunday, June 8: Showers dominate the day, bringing cooler temperatures with a high of 15°C, and showers will continue overnight (low of 10°C).

Air Quality and Health Advisory

The Special Air Quality Statement warns that wildfire smoke may persist for several days, particularly into Friday. Vulnerable populations should avoid prolonged or strenuous outdoor activity.

Groups most at risk:

• Seniors and infants

• Pregnant individuals

• People with asthma, COPD, or heart disease

• Those working or exercising outdoors

Protective Measures:

• Stay indoors with windows and doors closed

• Use HEPA air filters or certified air purifiers

• Limit outdoor exposure and use a NIOSH-certified N95 respirator if outside

• Keep cool during heat events while maintaining clean indoor air

• Check in on neighbours or family members at risk

For official guidance, visit canada.ca/wildfire-smoke.

Wardrobe Recommendations

• Today: Dress in light spring clothing. A jacket is recommended this morning, and sunglasses plus sunscreen are advisable with the high UV index.

• Friday: Prepare for hazy skies and poorer air quality — keep outdoor exposure brief and consider wearing a mask.

• Weekend: Showers are expected off and on, so carry a light waterproof jacket or umbrella.

Weather Trivia

Did you know?
Thunder Bay’s bowl-like geography, nestled between the Nor’Wester Mountains and Lake Superior, can trap air masses — including smoke. This effect can lead to longer-lasting air quality issues, especially under high-pressure systems with light winds.