Severe Storm Threat Builds as Humid, Smoky Air Settles Over Thunder Bay
THUNDER BAY – WEATHER – As of 10:20 AM EDT, Environment Canada has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for the City of Thunder Bay. Conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms throughout the day, with potential hazards including strong wind gusts, large hail, and heavy rainfall. If you’re in the area, it’s time to review your storm safety plans and stay weather-aware.
Current Weather Conditions (as of 10:00 AM EDT at Thunder Bay Airport)
-
Temperature: 23.0°C
-
Dew Point: 20.6°C
-
Humidity: 86%
-
Wind: Light to calm
-
Pressure: 101.4 kPa (rising)
-
Visibility: Moderate (fog patches dissipating, smoke expected later)
-
Sky: Mostly cloudy with unstable conditions developing
Weather Alert Summary
Severe Thunderstorm Watch – Key Details
-
Hazards:
-
Wind gusts up to 90 km/h
-
Hail between 2 to 4 cm in diameter
-
Heavy rainfall, potentially leading to localized flooding
-
-
Timing:
-
First wave possible late this morning
-
Second round likely later this afternoon and evening
-
-
Discussion:
Thunderstorms are currently tracking northeast from northern Minnesota and may impact parts of Thunder Bay this morning. A second, potentially more intense system could develop later today. With a humidex of 34, the atmosphere remains ripe for storm formation. -
Risks:
-
Localized power outages
-
Hail damage to vehicles and property
-
Dangerous lightning
-
⚠️ When thunder roars, go indoors. Lightning is a deadly hazard that kills and injures Canadians every year.
⚠️ Emergency Management Ontario advises residents to take immediate cover if threatening weather approaches.
Forecast Details
Sunday, July 27
-
Conditions: Becoming cloudy, with a 40% chance of showers and risk of thunderstorms this afternoon. Local smoke may move into the region, impacting air quality.
-
High: 27°C
-
Humidex: 34
-
UV Index: 8 – very high
Tonight
-
Conditions: Cloudy, with a 60% chance of showers and risk of thunderstorms, especially before and just after midnight.
-
Wind: East 20 km/h becoming light overnight
-
Low: 18°C
Weather Outlook
Monday, July 28:
Sunny, with northwest winds at 20 km/h in the afternoon.
-
High: 26°C
-
Humidex: 33
-
Night: Cloudy, low 13°C
Tuesday, July 29:
A mix of sun and cloud.
-
High: 24°C
-
Night: Clear, low 10°C
Safety & Preparation Tips
-
Secure outdoor items now before winds increase.
-
Avoid low-lying areas prone to flash flooding.
-
Charge mobile devices and prepare for short-term outages.
-
If a storm approaches, shelter indoors and stay away from windows.
Weather Trivia
Did You Know?
A humidex of 34 means it feels significantly warmer than the air temperature. This extra energy in the atmosphere increases the likelihood of intense storm formation, especially when combined with moist air masses moving in from the U.S. Midwest.
