Smoke Advisory Remains in Effect – Reduced Air Quality from Prairie Wildfires
KENORA – WEATHER – A Special Air Quality Statement continues this morning for Kenora, Grassy Narrows, and Whitedog, as smoke from forest fires over the Prairies blankets the region. With visibility reduced to 4 km at Kenora Airport and air quality impacted, residents are urged to take precautions. Smoky conditions are expected to persist through Wednesday, especially in low-lying and sheltered areas.
Air Quality Health Advisory
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Health Risks:
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Mild symptoms: eye, nose, or throat irritation, headaches, coughing
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Serious symptoms: wheezing, chest pain, shortness of breath
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If symptoms worsen or become severe, seek medical help immediately
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High-Risk Groups:
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Seniors, infants, young children, pregnant people
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Individuals with asthma, COPD, heart disease, or chronic health conditions
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Outdoor workers
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Recommendations:
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Stay indoors with windows and doors closed
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Use HEPA air filters or certified portable air cleaners
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Wear a properly fitted N95 mask outdoors if necessary
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Check on neighbours, elders, or anyone living alone
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Current Conditions (as of 5:36 AM CDT at Kenora Airport)
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Temperature: 14.4°C
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Dew Point: 12.5°C
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Humidity: 88%
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Wind: North at 9 km/h
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Pressure: 102.4 kPa (rising)
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Visibility: 4 km
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Sky Conditions: Smoke, with poor air clarity despite otherwise stable conditions
Today’s Forecast – Tuesday, July 29
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Sky: A mix of sun and cloud throughout the day
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Smoke: Local smoke continues to reduce visibility and affect air quality
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Wind: Becoming northwest 20 km/h late this morning
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High: 23°C
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UV Index: 8 – Very High
Tonight
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Conditions: Clearing skies but local smoke remains
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Low: 13°C
Extended Forecast
Wednesday, July 30
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Morning: Sunny, becoming a mix of sun and cloud in the afternoon
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Smoke: Local smoke will continue to linger
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Wind: Becoming north 20 km/h
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High: 21°C
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UV Index: 7 – High
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Night: Clear, low of 14°C
Thursday, July 31
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Conditions: Sunny and smoke-free conditions increasingly likely
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High: 25°C
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Night: Clear, low of 16°C
Friday, August 1
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Conditions: Sunny and warmer
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High: 27°C
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Night: Clear, low of 17°C
Wardrobe & Health Tips
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Today & Wednesday:
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Wear light, breathable clothing for mild temperatures
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Limit outdoor exertion and wear a respirator mask (N95) if smoke is thick
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Apply sunscreen even with hazy conditions, as UV remains strong
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Later in the Week:
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Prepare for a warming trend — sunglasses, hats, and hydration are key
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Weather Trivia
Did You Know?
Kenora often experiences long-range smoke events from western wildfires. Winds from the Prairies can carry smoke hundreds of kilometres into northwestern Ontario, causing noticeable visibility reduction even when skies are cloud-free.
