Hazy Skies, Health Precautions, and a Stormy Pattern Into the Week
Sunday, June 15 – Smoke, Haze, and a Chance of Thunder
Good morning, Sandy Lake. As of 6:30 AM EDT, conditions are hazy, with the temperature at 11.6°C, humidity at 76%, and winds from the ESE at 9 km/h. Visibility is reduced to just 2 km due to thick local smoke from wildfires burning across far northwestern Ontario. Pressure sits at a steady 102.2 kPa, but the air is anything but calm.
An Air Quality Warning is currently in effect for Sandy Lake, Weagamow Lake, and Deer Lake, with smoke expected to persist over the coming days. Everyone, regardless of age or health status, is advised to limit outdoor exposure, but the risk is especially high for seniors, pregnant individuals, young children, those with chronic conditions, and outdoor workers.
Health Advisory: Stay Indoors, Breathe Easy
You may notice eye, throat, or nasal irritation, headaches, or a mild cough. More severe symptoms—like wheezing or chest pain—require immediate medical attention. Remember:
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Avoid or postpone outdoor activities and community events.
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Keep windows and doors closed as much as possible.
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Use HEPA filters or portable air cleaners indoors.
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If you must go outside, wear a NIOSH-certified N95 mask for added protection.
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Check in on vulnerable neighbours or family members.
Even though there’s no extreme heat right now, if things warm up, prioritize staying cool while managing indoor air quality.
Today’s Forecast: Cloudy with Storm Potential
Expect mainly cloudy skies with a 40% chance of showers starting late this morning and continuing into the afternoon. Local smoke remains, reducing air quality throughout the day. There’s also a risk of a thunderstorm later this afternoon as winds shift to the west at 20 km/h. The high will reach 21°C, with a moderate UV index of 5 — tempered by the smoky skies.
Tonight – Smoke and Storms May Stick Around
Skies remain mostly cloudy tonight, with a 40% chance of showers and a risk of a thunderstorm continuing into the evening. Smoke will continue to impact air quality overnight. The low will be a mild 11°C.
Monday, June 16 – Slightly Warmer, Still Smoky
Monday won’t bring much relief. It will be cloudy, with a 40% chance of showers in the afternoon. Winds will shift to northeast at 20 km/h, and the high will rise to 24°C, with a humidex of 27, so expect it to feel a bit warmer and stickier than today. The UV index remains moderate at 5 — again, likely lowered by smoke cover.
Monday night continues cloudy with another 40% chance of showers and a low of 14°C.
Tuesday Outlook: Still Grey, Still Smoky
Tuesday’s forecast brings more of the same — cloudy skies, a 40% chance of showers, and a high of 23°C. Tuesday night brings cloudy periods and a low of 13°C.
What to Wear
Given the air quality warning, your most important accessory today is a well-fitted respirator-style mask if venturing outside. Dress in light, breathable layers, and keep a rain jacket or umbrella handy in case that thunderstorm decides to make a splash.
Weather Trivia – The Double Trouble of Haze
Here’s a fun (and slightly alarming) fact: smoke particles not only irritate lungs but also block sunlight, often lowering temperatures and the UV index. That’s why today’s UV is only 5 despite mostly cloudy skies — but don’t let that fool you. Air quality, not sunburn, is the big concern today.
