Wildfire Smoke Returns to Thunder Bay: Poor Air Quality and Limited Visibility Expected Today

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Visible Smoke on Court Street in Thunder Bay - June 26 2023
Visible Smoke on Court Street in Thunder Bay

June 6, 2025: Thunder Bay’s Detailed Weather Forecast

THUNDER BAY – Outside today it is like being at camp, you can smell the smoke in the air from wildfires to the west.

A Special Air Quality Statement remains in effect today for Thunder Bay, as widespread wildfire smoke is forecast to move in by late morning, reducing visibility and elevating health risks for residents. While the temperature climbs under mixed skies, the smoke will persist into the evening and continue impacting the region through the weekend.

Today’s Weather Overview

Current Conditions

As of 7:00 AM EDT, the Thunder Bay Airport reports mostly cloudy skies with a temperature of 7.6°C. The dew point is 7.3°C, and humidity is at 98%, producing a damp and chilly start. Winds are light from the west-southwest at 7 km/h, and visibility is moderate at 13 kilometres, already showing early signs of smoke infiltration.

Barometric pressure sits at 101.9 kPa but is falling, suggesting a weakening air mass that may allow for changing weather patterns, including increasing smoke concentration.

Today’s forecast calls for a mix of sun and cloud with a 30% chance of morning showers, followed by the onset of widespread smoke later this morning and this afternoon. The high will reach 22°C, and the UV index is 7 (high) — sun protection remains essential, even with haze in the sky.

Weekend Forecast

Saturday, June 7

  • Morning to early afternoon: Sunny, with local smoke expected to linger.

  • Afternoon: Clouds increase with a 30% chance of showers late in the day.

  • High: 18°C

  • UV Index: 7 or high

  • Night: Cloudy with a 40% chance of showers, low of 9°C.

Sunday, June 8

  • Persistent showers throughout the day with a high of 18°C.

  • Night: Continued showers, low around 8°C.

Monday, June 9

  • Cloudy with a 40% chance of showers, high of 18°C.

  • Monday Night: Cloudy periods with a 30% chance of rain, low of 8°C.


Health Advisory: Special Air Quality Statement

Widespread wildfire smoke is forecast for today and tonight, posing a serious health risk to many residents, particularly vulnerable groups.

At-risk populations include:

  • Older adults

  • Pregnant people

  • Infants and young children

  • Individuals with chronic heart or lung conditions

  • Outdoor workers and those exercising outdoors

Recommended Actions:

  • Avoid strenuous activity outdoors

  • Keep windows and doors closed

  • Use HEPA or certified air filters to clean indoor air

  • Wear a NIOSH-approved N95 respirator if you must be outdoors

  • Watch for symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or persistent coughing

  • Check in on vulnerable neighbors and relatives

Resources:


Wardrobe Recommendations

  • Today: Begin the day with a jacket for the cool and damp morning. Switch to light, breathable clothing by midday. A mask is advised if outdoors for long periods.

  • Saturday: Dress in layers for a mix of sun, cool air, and the chance of showers. Bring rain protection for late afternoon.

  • Sunday: Wear waterproof outerwear and warm layers, as steady showers and cooler temperatures are expected.

Weather Trivia

Did you know?
Thunder Bay’s location between the Nor’Wester Mountains and Lake Superior creates a basin effect that can trap smoke and pollutants, especially during periods of light wind and high humidity — exactly the conditions we’re experiencing today.

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