Smoke Lingers Over Thunder Bay as Showers Tease Relief
Thunder Bay, ON – A veil of wildfire smoke is draping the skies over the City of Thunder Bay this Monday morning, as Environment Canada continues a Special Air Quality Statement for the region.
At 6:00 AM EDT, the temperature sat at a humid 15.8°C under mostly cloudy skies, with near-saturated air bringing humidity to a staggering 96%. Winds are drifting in gently from the east at 7 km/h, pushing the smoke around like a lazy ceiling fan.
Barometric pressure is holding steady at 102.2 kPa and slowly rising, which could bring some stabilization later in the day — but not before a murky Monday unfolds.
Today’s Forecast – Cloud Cover, Light Rain and Lingering Smoke
The forecast calls for mainly cloudy skies with a 30% chance of showers this afternoon. Local smoke will continue to affect air quality and visibility, and the combination of haze and humidity will make it feel warmer than the mercury reads — the high of 22°C will feel closer to 25°C thanks to the humidex.
The UV index remains high at 7, so if you’re heading out, slather on sunscreen — just don’t forget the mask! Tonight, skies will begin to clear, and temperatures will ease down to a low of 14°C.
A Look Ahead – Hotter Days, Sporadic Showers, and Smoky Air
Tuesday promises a slightly warmer mix of sun and cloud, though smoke will persist. There’s a 30% chance of late-afternoon showers with a risk of thunderstorms, so keep your umbrella and rubber boots nearby.
Expect a high of 24°C, feeling more like 29°C in the humidity. The evening sees increasing cloud cover with a low of 14°C. Wednesday and Thursday trend cloudy with continued chances of rain — both days see highs in the mid-20s and a 40% chance of showers lingering into the evenings.
Stay Safe, Stay Smart
Due to the thickening wildfire smoke, those with respiratory issues, seniors, children, and outdoor workers should minimize time outside. Keep windows closed, run a high-quality air purifier if possible, and if you’re heading outdoors, consider a properly fitted N95 mask. The health risks of smoke can sneak up faster than you’d think — even if you feel fine, your lungs may be feeling otherwise.
What to Wear
Today’s a “light layers and lung protection” kind of day. Breathable long sleeves can help minimize exposure to particles, and sunglasses will offer a bit of relief from hazy glare. Don’t forget that N95 if you’re outside for long!
Historic Weather Facts – August 4 in Thunder Bay
Historically, Thunder Bay has seen some weather variety on August 4th. The record high for this date is a sizzling 33.2°C set in 1983, while the chilliest low was a brisk 4.4°C back in 1978. Today’s forecast falls somewhere comfortably in between — just with a smoky twist.
Thunder Bay Weather Trivia
Did you know? Thunder Bay averages about 319 sunny days a year — but when wildfire smoke rolls in, it can turn the sun into an eerie orange orb and block solar energy from reaching the ground. It’s a phenomenon called “smoke dimming,” and yes, it really messes with your mood and your solar panels.
