Wildfire Smoke Persists Across Far Northwestern Ontario — Caution Urged for All Residents
Sunday, June 15 – Hazy Skies and Health Warnings Under the Sun
As of 6:30 AM EDT in Bearskin Lake, the day has begun under sunny skies, but looks can be deceiving. An Air Quality Warning is in effect for Bearskin Lake and Sachigo Lake due to smoke from wildfires burning in far northwestern Ontario. While visibility may seem passable this morning with 16 km reported at Big Trout Lake Airport, local smoke is expected to reduce air quality and visibility through the day and into the next few days.
Current conditions report a temperature of 7°C, with humidity at 81% and light winds from the southeast at 13 km/h. Pressure remains steady at 102.4 kPa, indicating relatively stable weather conditions—but the air is anything but clean.
Air Quality Warning: Stay Safe, Stay Indoors
Smoke in the air brings serious health risks, especially to vulnerable groups such as:
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Seniors (65+)
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Pregnant individuals
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Infants and young children
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Those with chronic health issues
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Outdoor workers and athletes
Even healthy individuals can be affected during heavy smoke events. Symptoms may include eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, coughing, and in more severe cases, wheezing or chest discomfort. If any serious symptoms occur, seek immediate medical attention.
Precautions:
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Avoid or limit time outdoors.
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Postpone outdoor sports, chores, and community events.
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Keep windows and doors closed to prevent smoke from entering.
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Use high-quality air filters or portable air cleaners indoors.
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If you must go outside, wear a properly fitted N95 respirator mask to help reduce inhalation of fine smoke particles.
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Check in on elders or vulnerable neighbours during this event.
Forecast Summary: Mild Temperatures, Persistent Smoke
Today:
Despite the sun, local smoke will linger throughout the day. Expect increasing cloud cover with a 40% chance of showers this afternoon. The high will reach 18°C, and the UV index is a moderate 5 — lower than usual due to smoke filtering sunlight.
Tonight:
Continued mainly cloudy skies with another 40% chance of showers, plus persistent local smoke. The low drops to a comfortable 9°C.
Monday, June 16:
A mix of sun and cloud returns by late morning, but local smoke continues. Winds shift to the northeast at 20 km/h, then become southeast at 20 km/h in the afternoon. High temperature climbs to 21°C, and the UV index rises to 7, considered high.
Monday Night:
Overcast conditions persist with a low of 12°C.
Tuesday, June 17:
Expect cloudy skies and a high of 22°C, with a 30% chance of showers by night. The low dips to 11°C under cloudy periods.
What to Wear and How to Prepare
Dress in light, breathable layers today and tomorrow, as temperatures remain mild. But more importantly, prioritize respiratory safety: if you have to be outdoors, wear a mask and avoid high-exertion activities. Indoor air quality is key—ensure filters are clean and fans are set to recirculate air if possible.
Weather Trivia – The Northern Paradox
Did you know that wildfire smoke can significantly lower UV levels, despite bright, sunny skies? It’s why today’s UV index is only 5 despite clear conditions — smoke particles scatter sunlight and reduce radiation levels at ground level. But don’t be fooled—the air may look calm, but it’s not clean.
