A Mild Start to the Week in Ontario’s Far North
Tuesday Forecast – Clouds, Chance of Rain, and Smoky Skies
Good morning from Fort Hope, where it’s currently 11°C under a cloudy sky. The air is damp with humidity at 89%, and a light easterly wind at 15 km/h is breezing through the community. Atmospheric pressure sits at 100.9 kPa, and although visibility remains at a decent 16 km, keep an eye (and your lungs) on developing smoke conditions by late afternoon due to wildfire activity in northwestern Ontario.
Today’s weather will stay mostly cloudy, with a 60% chance of showers expected through the day. While rain will be the dominant feature early, local wildfire smoke is forecast to drift in this afternoon, creating potentially poor air quality. Temperatures will climb to a pleasant but subdued high of 19°C, and with a UV index of 7, sun protection is still recommended despite the cloud cover.
Tonight – Clearing Up, But Watch the Smoke
Rain chances taper off this evening, and skies will begin to clear near midnight. However, local smoke will remain a concern, so keeping windows closed and indoor air clean is wise. Expect a low of 10°C, making it a relatively mild night across the region.
Wednesday, June 18 – A Bit of Everything
Wednesday starts with sunshine and local smoke lingering through the morning and early afternoon. Clouds build by late morning, followed by a 60% chance of showers and a risk of thunderstorms in the afternoon. Winds will become north at 20 km/h, gusting to 40 km/h near noon, possibly clearing the smoke a bit but stirring up other weather dynamics. The daytime high stays modest at 19°C, and the UV index remains at a strong 7.
By evening, expect cloudy periods and a low of +5°C, a cool but calm end to the midweek.
Outlook for the Rest of the Week – Sunshine With Showery Pockets
Thursday looks like a treat — sunny and dry with a high of 20°C, perfect for getting outdoors (air quality permitting). Friday brings a mix of sun and cloud and a 30% chance of showers, with a pleasant high of 22°C. Overnight temperatures remain mild through the week, with Friday night dipping to 13°C.
What to Wear
You’ll want layers today. A light waterproof jacket is a smart move with rain in the forecast, and if you’re sensitive to air quality, consider limiting outdoor exposure or donning a respirator-type mask. Temperatures remain mild enough for long sleeves or a hoodie, especially with breezy and damp conditions later today.
Weather Trivia – Fort Hope’s Famous Fires
Did you know Fort Hope (Eabametoong First Nation) and surrounding areas have historically been hotspots for summer fire activity? Due to its location within the boreal forest and frequent summer thunderstorms, the region often sees a quick shift from rainy calm to fire risk with just a few dry, windy days. That’s why smoke conditions can change rapidly — today’s drizzle could be tomorrow’s haze!
