THUNDER BAY – A shift in the weather pattern brings clouds, rain, and risk of thunderstorms to Thunder Bay by Wednesday, and it’s already had an impact on scheduled events.

The City of Thunder Bay has officially postponed the drone light show that was to take place tonight during the Live on the Waterfront – Summer Send-Off event. The decision follows an updated weather forecast calling for rain and strong gusting winds during the critical setup and evening hours.

The show has been rescheduled to Friday, September 19, 2025, to ensure both safety and a full experience for attendees. Meanwhile, all other festival events—including live music, vendors, community booths, and shuttle service—will continue Wednesday evening as planned.

Wednesday’s Weather Overview

Current Conditions

As of this Tuesday evening, Thunder Bay is transitioning from a calm, clear night into a cloudier and more unsettled day. Temperature sits around 9°C with humidity rising. Winds will strengthen through the morning, shifting west at 30 km/h with gusts reaching 50 km/h—a key concern for drone flight safety.

Barometric pressure is falling, signaling incoming precipitation, and the humidex will reach 25°C, giving the air a slightly heavier feel despite a high of 22°C. UV index will sit at a moderate 5 during sunnier breaks.

Expected Conditions

• Tonight (Wednesday, August 27):
  Partly cloudy skies with a 60% chance of showers in the evening and a risk of early thunderstorms. Winds and moisture will ease overnight, with temperatures falling to 5°C.

• Thursday, August 28:
  Sunny and clear conditions return with a high of 20°C—ideal for outdoor activities and the second drone show, which remains scheduled weather permitting.

• Friday, August 29:
  Another sunny day with highs near 22°C and overnight lows around 10°C, leading into a beautiful late-summer weekend.

• Saturday, August 30:
  More sunshine and stable weather, with daytime highs again at 22°C and clear skies expected overnight.

Wardrobe Recommendations

• Today: Dress in layers, including a water-resistant jacket or umbrella for passing showers. With wind gusts, a windbreaker is advised.

• Tonight: Temperatures will fall quickly—bring a sweater or light jacket if attending outdoor events.

• Later This Week: Sunglasses and lighter clothing will work well with sunny conditions, but keep a light jacket on hand for cool evenings.

Weather Impact: Live on the Waterfront

Due to today’s forecast:

• The drone light show scheduled for Wednesday night is postponed and will now take place on Friday, September 19.

• Thursday’s drone show is still scheduled to proceed, pending continued favourable weather.

• All other Summer Send-Off festivities remain on schedule both nights, including:

  • Live music

  • Local food vendors and artisans

  • Community booths

  • Shuttle service from the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium (6:00 – 11:00 pm)

For full event updates, visit thunderbay.ca/events or follow @tbayculture on Facebook and Instagram.

Weather Trivia

Why can’t drones fly in rain or wind?
Drones, especially those used for light shows, require precise GPS calibration and stable air to safely form coordinated shapes. Rain can damage electronics, and wind can destabilize formations, creating risks for both the drone equipment and audience safety. That’s why regulations from Transport Canada restrict flights during such conditions.