Thunder Bay Weather Alert: Storm Watch Casts a Shadow Over Canada Day Weekend
Sunday, June 29 – Storm Clouds Loom Over the Lakehead
Thunder Bay’s Canada Day weekend has taken a dramatic turn, as Environment Canada issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch at 12:53 PM EDT today. Conditions are now ripe for the development of severe thunderstorms capable of unleashing strong wind gusts, large hail, and torrential rainfall — all potentially rolling in this afternoon and into the evening.
As of early this afternoon, it’s 13.8°C with mostly cloudy skies, light northeast winds at 4 km/h, and humidity sitting at 95%. The barometric pressure is 101.2 kPa and rising, but the calm is deceiving — the atmosphere is ready to flip the switch.
⚠️ What to Expect:
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Wind gusts up to 90 km/h
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Hail between nickel and ping pong ball size
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Heavy rain, capable of rapid accumulation
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Possible power outages, tree damage, and impacts to soft structures
So yes — this afternoon’s forecasted 40% chance of showers with risk of thunderstorms has escalated significantly. Temperatures will rise to a humid 22°C, with a humidex of 27. UV levels remain high at 8, so sun sneaks in between storm cells are still a burn risk.
Tonight, the chance of storms continues early, then tapers to partly cloudy skies and a low of 12°C.
Monday, June 30 – Still Unsettled, Stormy Potential Persists
If you’re planning outdoor adventures before Canada Day, keep your umbrella — and an eye on the sky. Monday brings a mix of sun and cloud with a 60% chance of afternoon showers, again with the risk of thunderstorms.
Winds will be southerly at 20 km/h, shifting eastward in the afternoon. Expect a high of 25°C, but it will feel more like 30 with humidity. UV index remains a toasty 7.
Monday night continues the theme: cloudy with a 30% chance of showers, and a low of 15°C.
Tuesday, July 1 – Canada Day Brings a Gentle Reprieve
Good news for celebrants: Tuesday looks friendlier, with a mix of sun and cloud and a 30% chance of showers — fewer storm threats, and a summer-sweet high of 25°C. Overnight skies clear, dropping to a cooler 12°C — ideal for fireworks if all goes to plan.
Safety First: When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!
Emergency Management Ontario urges residents to seek shelter immediately if threatening weather approaches. Lightning injuries, hail damage, and falling branches are all risks when storms intensify. Secure outdoor gear, avoid boating or hiking, and stay weather aware through local alerts and forecasts.
Wardrobe & Prep Advice
Today’s outfit: light layers and waterproof gear. Monday: sunglasses in the morning, raincoat in the afternoon. For Canada Day: festive and flexible — and maybe toss a poncho into your picnic basket, just in case.
Weather Trivia – Prairie-Style Thunder, Lakehead Drama
Did you know? Thunder Bay’s location near Lake Superior can amplify storm systems, adding intensity due to moisture flow and localized temperature contrasts. That means storms here often hit with more gusto than you’d expect at first glance.
