Mix of Sunshine and Storms as Wildfire Smoke Lingers Over the Northwest

Monday, June 16 – Warm, Muggy, and Unsettled with Smoke in the Air

Good morning from Sioux Lookout, where the skies are partly cloudy and the temperature sits at 13.9°C to start the day. Humidity is high at 87%, and combined with a light southern breeze at 5 km/h, it makes for a sticky, still atmosphere. The barometric pressure is at 101.3 kPa and falling, signaling that change is in the air.

Expect mainly cloudy skies throughout the day with a 60% chance of showers developing this afternoon. There’s also a risk of thunderstorms, so don’t be surprised if you hear some rumbling overhead. As if that wasn’t enough drama, local wildfire smoke continues to affect the area, reducing air quality. Today’s high will reach 25°C, but it’ll feel more like 28°C with the humidex. The UV index is 6, meaning sun protection is still recommended—even if filtered through haze.

Tonight – Showers, Smoke, and Thunderstorm Risk

The weather takes on a moody tone this evening with continued cloud cover and a 60% chance of showers. There’s still a risk of thunderstorms, and local smoke will linger throughout the night. Winds will remain mostly calm, but air quality may dip again. The overnight low is a mild 14°C.

Tuesday, June 17 – Breezy and Cloudy with Smoke and Possible Thunderstorms

Tuesday continues the trend of unsettled weather with cloudy skies and a 40% chance of showers, particularly in the afternoon when thunderstorms may also develop. Local smoke remains in the forecast, so visibility and air quality could be affected again. A north wind will pick up to 20 km/h gusting to 40, offering some ventilation but also stirring up any lingering smoke. The high will be 22°C, feeling like 25°C with the humidex. The UV index will drop to a moderate 5.

Overnight, the skies clear, offering some fresh relief with a low of 13°C—though that could still feel a bit stuffy if the smoke persists.

Wednesday, June 18 – Some Sun, Some Showers, More Smoke?

Wednesday promises a break in the grey, with a mix of sun and cloud and a 30% chance of showers. Temperatures will climb to 25°C, delivering a classic Northwestern Ontario summer day—if the smoke lets the sunshine through. The night brings cloudy periods and a continued 30% chance of showers, with a comfortable low of 10°C.

What to Wear

With muggy temperatures, light, breathable layers are best. However, don’t forget your rain jacket or umbrella for the afternoon downpours and potential thunder. And for those spending time outside, especially in smoky areas, an N95-style respirator is a wise choice. Sunglasses and sunscreen should remain on standby given the UV index.

Air Quality and Smoke Advisory – Stay Informed and Safe

Although no formal warning is currently issued, local smoke from wildfires continues to affect Sioux Lookout, especially in the evenings. Individuals with respiratory conditions, children, seniors, and those working outdoors should limit their exposure when smoke concentrations increase. Keep windows closed when possible, and consider an air purifier indoors.

Weather Trivia – Smoke Signals in the Sky

Did you know? Smoke particles in the atmosphere can enhance sunsets and sunrises, creating vivid red and orange hues. While beautiful to look at, this colourful spectacle is a sign of reduced air quality and the presence of fine particulate matter—another reason to admire from inside if conditions worsen.