THUNDER BAY – WEATHER – After a Saturday afternoon thunderstorm complete with hail – the smoke rolled in with people across the city witnessing severe smoke.

Today, Thunder Bay residents are waking up to smoky skies this Sunday morning as wildfire smoke continues to drift into the region. A Special Air Quality Statement remains in effect due to reduced visibility and health risks, especially for vulnerable populations. While the weather today brings warmth and sunshine, the smoke is the dominant concern.

Today’s Weather Overview

Current Conditions (as of 8:00 AM EDT – Thunder Bay Airport)

• Temperature: 16.3°C

• Humidity: 91%

• Dew Point: 14.8°C

• Wind: WNW at 11 km/h

• Visibility: 10 km (restricted by smoke)

• Pressure: 100.9 kPa (rising)

• Condition: Smoke

Air Quality Advisory

⚠️ Special Air Quality Statement in effect for the City of Thunder Bay

Westerly winds continue to push smoke from wildfires in northern Ontario, causing significant air quality degradation across the Thunder Bay area. This situation is expected to persist through tonight and potentially into Monday.

Health & Safety Guidance:

• Limit time outdoors, especially for those with respiratory issues, seniors, infants, or pregnant individuals.

• Avoid strenuous outdoor activities, particularly during smoky hours.

• If you must be outside, wear a properly fitted N95 or equivalent mask.

• Use indoor air filters or certified portable air cleaners to improve indoor air quality.

• Keep windows and doors closed unless outside air quality improves.

• Stay hydrated and monitor your health closely.

• Seek medical attention if symptoms such as wheezing, severe cough, dizziness, or chest pains occur.

More information available at canada.ca/wildfire-smoke.

Sunday Forecast (July 13)

Expected Conditions

A mix of sun and cloud will dominate the day, with a 40% chance of showers and a risk of thunderstorms late this afternoon. Local smoke will persist. Winds shift to southwest at 20 km/h, gusting up to 40 by noon.

• Daytime High: 26°C

• Humidex: 30

• UV Index: 7 (High)

Tonight:
Expect partly cloudy skies with a 60% chance of evening showers and a risk of a thunderstorm. Skies will clear overnight as winds calm.

• Low: 15°C

Tomorrow’s Outlook (Monday, July 14)

Day

• Sunny in the morning, then increasing cloudiness near noon.

• Local smoke continues.

• High: 26°C

• Humidex: 30

• UV Index: 8 (Very High)

Night

• Cloudy periods with a 40% chance of showers.

• Low: 15°C

Tuesday, July 15

• Cloudy with a 60% chance of showers during the day.

• High: 20°C

• Night: Cloudy with continued 60% chance of showers. Low 12°C.

Wardrobe Recommendations

Given today’s warmth and smoke, Thunder Bay residents should:

• Dress in lightweight, breathable clothing

• Wear UV-protective sunglasses and sunscreen despite the haze

• Keep an N95 mask handy if you must spend extended time outdoors

• Carry an umbrella or rain jacket in case of afternoon showers

Weather Trivia

Did you know? Thunder Bay’s air quality is normally among the best in Ontario, thanks to low industrial emissions and prevailing lake winds—making today’s smoke episode a stark contrast from the norm.