Thunder Bay – WEATHER – Thunder Bay is beginning the Civic Holiday long weekend under a continued Air Quality Warning. Smoke from large wildfires across the Prairies continues to blanket the region, reducing visibility and causing hazardous air conditions.
While we notice the smoke, remember our pets with far more sensitive noses really notice the smoke. Take care to ensure their lung health too.
Residents should be prepared for poor air quality into Saturday, with potential health risks for all individuals, especially vulnerable groups.
Today’s Weather Overview
Current Conditions – 8:00 AM EDT
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Temperature: 14.2°C
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Condition: Smoke
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Humidity: 92%
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Dew Point: 12.9°C
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Wind: WSW 6 km/h
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Pressure: 102.8 kPa (Rising)
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Visibility: 6 km
Smoke continues to choke the skies over Thunder Bay, with cool early morning temperatures giving way to a warm and hazy afternoon.
Air Quality Warning – What You Need to Know
Environment Canada has issued an Air Quality Warning for Thunder Bay, citing very high levels of wildfire smoke particles in the atmosphere. Visibility and air quality may fluctuate rapidly, especially with changing wind patterns.
Health and Safety Guidance:
Those most at risk include:
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Seniors (65+)
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Pregnant individuals
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Infants and children
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People with heart/lung conditions
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Outdoor workers
Common symptoms of smoke exposure include:
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Eye, nose, or throat irritation
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Headaches
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Coughing or wheezing
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Chest pain or difficulty breathing
➡️ If you experience severe symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
Protect Yourself:
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Avoid strenuous outdoor activities
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Stay indoors with windows and doors closed
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Use air purifiers or HVAC systems with HEPA filters
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Wear a properly fitted N95 mask if you must go outdoors
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Check in on vulnerable individuals
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Follow updates from local authorities and health officials
Holiday Weekend Forecast
Today – Friday, August 1
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A mix of sun and cloud with 30% chance of early morning showers
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Local smoke throughout the day
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High: 27°C | Humidex: 30
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Wind: Becoming west 20 km/h, gusting to 40
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UV Index: 7 (High)
Tonight
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Clear skies
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Local smoke remains
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Low: 13°C
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Wind: Light by evening
Saturday, August 2
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Sunny and smoky
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High: 28°C | Humidex: 33
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Wind: West 20 km/h, gusting to 40
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Night: Clear, low 13°C
Sunday, August 3
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Sunny skies
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High: 25°C
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Night: Cloudy periods, low 12°C
Monday, August 4 (Civic Holiday)
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A mix of sun and cloud
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High: 24°C
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Night: Cloudy periods, low 12°C
Wardrobe Recommendations
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Mornings: Light jacket or sweater
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Afternoons: Short sleeves and sunglasses, but limit exposure
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Protection: Wear an N95 mask if outdoors for extended periods
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Hydration: Stay well-hydrated in the heat and haze
Weather Trivia
Did You Know?
During the 2018 wildfire season, smoke from B.C. and Alberta travelled as far as Europe, visible from satellites over Ireland and the U.K. That same year, several Canadian cities reported air quality levels worse than Beijing.
