Widespread Smoke Lingers Over Dryden-Vermilion Bay as Warm, Sunny Conditions Develop

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Air Quality Alert

June 6, 2025: Dryden and Vermilion Bay Weather Report

DRYDEN – A Special Air Quality Statement remains in place for Dryden and Vermilion Bay today, as wildfire smoke continues to cause poor air quality and visibility reductions. While the sun is making a return and temperatures are set to rise, smoke trapped near the surface remains a health hazard, particularly for vulnerable individuals. Conditions are expected to gradually shift overnight and into Saturday.


Today’s Weather Overview

Current Conditions

As of 6:10 AM CDT, Dryden Airport is reporting mist and widespread smoke with a temperature of 5.6°C. The dew point is 4.6°C, and humidity is high at 93%, making for a damp and hazy start. Winds are calm, and visibility is reduced to just 4 kilometres, primarily due to smoke and low-level moisture.

Barometric pressure is 102.1 kPa, holding steady and indicating continued stagnant air conditions that will trap smoke at ground level.

The forecast calls for sunny skies with a high of 22°C, but smoke will persist throughout the day. Winds will become southwest at 20 km/h this afternoon, potentially helping to disperse smoke slightly. The UV index is 7 (high), so sun protection is important, even through the haze.


Weekend Forecast

Saturday, June 7

  • Morning: Sunny with local smoke lingering early in the day.

  • Afternoon: A mix of sun and cloud develops with a 30% chance of showers late in the day.

  • Winds: Becoming south at 20 km/h.

  • High: 22°C

  • UV Index: 7 or high

Saturday Night: Showers expected with an overnight low of 12°C.


Sunday, June 8

  • Showers continue, with a cooler daytime high of 17°C.

  • Sunday Night: More showers are expected with a low near 10°C.


Monday, June 9

  • Cloudy skies with a 40% chance of showers.

  • High: 18°C

  • Night: Cloudy periods with a 30% chance of showers, low of 10°C.


Health Advisory: Special Air Quality Statement

Widespread wildfire smoke continues to affect the Dryden–Vermilion Bay area. Air quality may not improve significantly until winds become more consistent over the weekend.

At-Risk Groups:

  • Seniors and infants

  • Pregnant individuals

  • People with asthma, COPD, or heart conditions

  • Outdoor workers and athletes

Recommended Actions:

  • Limit time outdoors, especially during physical activity

  • Keep windows and doors closed

  • Use HEPA filters or portable air purifiers

  • If outdoors, wear a NIOSH-approved N95 mask

  • Monitor symptoms like coughing, headaches, or chest pain

  • Check on neighbours, especially elders or those with pre-existing conditions

More information:


Wardrobe Recommendations

  • Today: Layer up for the cool start and switch to breathable clothing by afternoon. Avoid prolonged outdoor exposure due to smoke.

  • Saturday: Light and comfortable wear for a warm day; include rain protection for the evening. Monitor smoke levels.

  • Sunday: Prepare for rain with waterproof gear and warmer layers for the cooler high.


Weather Trivia

Did you know?
Dryden and Vermilion Bay sit in a corridor where air masses from the Prairies and boreal north converge, making the area prone to prolonged smoke stagnation during wildfire season. Even on clear days, smoke can linger near the surface due to weak vertical mixing.

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