Warm, Muggy, and Just Unpredictable Enough to Keep You Guessing
Saturday: Thunderstorm Watch and Humid Summer Air
The long weekend kicks off with cloudy skies and a mild 17.2°C morning in Dryden and Vermilion Bay, recorded at 6:00 AM at Dryden Airport. The humidity is sitting high at 83%, thanks to a dew point of 14.3°C, and winds from the south-southeast at 11 km/h are keeping things moist and warm. The barometric pressure is 101.2 kPa and falling, a strong signal that Mother Nature may have some theatrics in store.
Today will be mainly cloudy with a 40% chance of showers this afternoon and the risk of a thunderstorm. Winds will shift southwest at 20 km/h, bringing warmer air and the potential for some unstable conditions. The high will reach 25°C, but with a humidex of 31, it’s definitely a “hydrate and sunscreen” kind of day. The UV index is 7, so don’t let the clouds fool you — sunburn is still a strong possibility.
Saturday Night: Fog Rolls In, Storms Roll Out (We Hope)
Tonight brings partly cloudy skies with a continued 40% chance of showers, especially earlier in the evening. There remains a risk of a thunderstorm, so don’t be surprised by a flash of lightning or rumble of thunder before sunset. Overnight, fog patches may form, especially near the lakes. Winds gust southwest up to 40 km/h before calming, then pick back up to 20 km/h by early morning. Expect a mild low of 17°C — perfect for sleeping with the windows open, as long as the storm has passed.
Sunday: A Windy, Warm Day with Sun and Storm Potential
Sunday starts brighter, with a mix of sun and cloud, but still brings a 30% chance of showers and a risk of a thunderstorm in the afternoon. Early fog patches will burn off quickly, leaving the region with rising temps and rising wind. West winds will pick up to 30 km/h, gusting to 50, which could lead to choppy lake conditions and the odd toppled patio chair.
The high of 28°C combined with a humidex of 31 will make it feel midsummer-hot. Keep one eye on the radar if you’re out fishing, hiking, or enjoying a lakeside lunch. Sunday night stays cloudy with a 40% chance of showers and a low of 14°C.
Monday & Canada Day Tuesday: Cooler, Cloudier, Still a Bit Soggy
Monday brings a cooler, more subdued day with cloudy skies and a 40% chance of showers. The high dips to 23°C, which might be a welcome break after the heat and humidity. That 40% shower risk hangs around into Monday night as well.
On Canada Day (Tuesday), we’re looking at a mix of sun and cloud and yes — again — a 40% chance of showers. Still, with a high of 25°C, it’s comfortable weather for a flag-waving walk, an outdoor brunch, or a visit to a local celebration. Fireworks should be good to go by the evening, with cloudy periods and a low of 12°C.
What to Pack: Options Are Your Friend
For this mixed-bag weekend, bring light clothing for the humid heat, but don’t forget rain gear, especially if you’re headed out in the afternoon. A windbreaker, bug spray, and flashlight might come in handy for those breezy, foggy nights. And if you’re camping? Waterproof your gear — just in case the thunder decides to clap when you’re zipped in.
Dryden Weather Trivia
Did you know? Dryden is one of the sunniest places in Northwestern Ontario — but it also averages over 20 thunderstorm days a year. June and July are peak storm months thanks to the clash of southern heat and northern chill, making your weekend forecast a classic case of “wait five minutes.”