KENORA – WEATHER – Kenora and the Lake of the Woods region are facing continued air quality challenges as thick smoke from Prairie wildfires lingers into the Civic Holiday weekend. Environment Canada has issued an Air Quality Warning, with levels of pollution remaining dangerously high.
Locals and visitors alike are urged to take precautions, especially vulnerable individuals.
Today’s Weather Overview
Current Conditions – 7:00 AM CDT
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Temperature: 14.4°C
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Condition: Smoke
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Humidity: 73%
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Dew Point: 9.6°C
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Wind: WSW 9 km/h
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Pressure: 103.0 kPa (Rising)
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Visibility: 8 km
Air Quality Warning – Health Risk Advisory
A hazardous layer of wildfire smoke continues to affect the region. With poor air quality and reduced visibility, Environment Canada warns the smoke may persist through Saturday, potentially longer depending on wind conditions.
Who Is Most at Risk?
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Seniors (65+)
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Pregnant people
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Infants and young children
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Individuals with asthma, heart or lung conditions
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Outdoor workers and those doing strenuous activity
➡️ Symptoms to Watch For:
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Eye, nose, or throat irritation
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Headaches
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Coughing or shortness of breath
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Wheezing or chest pain
Severe symptoms? Call emergency services immediately.
Safety Tips:
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Limit or cancel time outdoors
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Postpone outdoor sports, events, and strenuous activity
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Keep windows and doors shut
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Use HEPA air filters or portable air cleaners
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Wear a properly fitted N95 mask if outdoors
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Stay in touch with vulnerable neighbours or family members
Stay informed at canada.ca/wildfire-smoke and airqualityontario.com.
Long Weekend Forecast
Today – Friday, August 1
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Sunny and smoky
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High: 26°C | Humidex: 27
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Wind: Becoming southwest 20 km/h this morning
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UV Index: 7 (High)
Tonight
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Clear skies, continued smoke
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Low: 15°C
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Wind: Becoming light this evening
Saturday, August 2
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Sunny with widespread smoke
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High: 27°C | Humidex: 30
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Wind: Southwest 20 km/h
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Night: Clear, low 17°C
Sunday, August 3
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Sunny and warm
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High: 25°C
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Night: Clear, low 17°C
Monday, August 4 (Civic Holiday)
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A mix of sun and cloud
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High: 25°C
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Night: Cloudy periods, low 17°C
Wardrobe Recommendations
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Mornings: Light jacket or hoodie for cooler starts
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Afternoons: Short sleeves and light clothing for warm temps
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Smoke Protection: N95 mask and sunglasses if outdoors
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General Tip: Stay indoors in cooled, filtered environments when possible
Weather Trivia
Did You Know?
Wildfire smoke can travel thousands of kilometres. In past years, smoke from Western Canada has reached parts of Europe, carried by upper-level winds in the jet stream.
