Smoke Lingers as Rain Offers Minimal Relief for Fire-Weary Region

KENORA – A smoky start to the new week continues across Kenora and the Lake of the Woods region, with local smoke and showers combining for a grey and damp Monday. While the air quality remains poor, gusty northwest winds are helping to slowly shift the smoke out of the area. Environment Canada forecasts a 70 percent chance of showers today, offering modest relief from both heat and fire conditions.

Today’s Weather Overview

Current Conditions (As of 6:00 AM CDT)

• Temperature: 9.9°C

• Condition: Smoke

• Humidity: 97%

• Dew Point: 9.5°C

• Wind: WNW at 14 km/h

• Pressure: 100.3 kPa (rising)

• Visibility: 8 km

Heavy moisture in the air and limited visibility signal lingering health risks from poor air quality due to wildfire smoke.

Monday Forecast

• Sky: Cloudy

• Rain: 70% chance of showers

• Wind: NW 20 km/h, gusting to 40

• Smoke: Local smoke remains present

• High: 16°C

• UV Index: 3 (moderate)

Tomorrow’s Forecast

Tuesday, June 10

• Morning: Sunny early on with hazy skies

• Afternoon: 30% chance of showers

• High: 22°C

• Night: Cloudy periods with 40% chance of showers

• Low: 11°C

Wednesday, June 11

• Day: Sunny and calm

• High: 22°C

• Night: Cloudy periods

• Low: 11°C

Wardrobe Recommendations

• Today: Dress in layers and bring a light waterproof jacket for showers. An N95 mask is advisable if spending time outdoors due to lingering smoke.

• Tuesday: Light clothing with a breathable long-sleeve option is recommended. Sunscreen is still important despite haze.

• Wednesday: Warmer and clearer – ideal for lighter clothing and sunglasses.

Weather Trivia

Kenora holds the record for one of Ontario’s earliest wildfire smoke advisories in a calendar year. In 2023, smoke advisories began as early as mid-May, prompting one of the longest consecutive air quality alert periods in regional history. With this year’s smoke lingering deep into June, 2025 may challenge that record.