Dryden and Vermilion Bay – Weather – Get set for smoke! Wildfires across western Canada are impacting all of Northwestern Ontario today. Smoke-filled skies dominate the beginning of the week across Dryden and Vermilion Bay, as wildfire smoke continues to impact air quality.

Environment Canada has issued a Special Air Quality Statement for the area, advising residents to take precautions as conditions may persist through Wednesday.

For Monday, while the morning begins mostly clear and calm, showers and possible thunderstorms are expected by this afternoon.

Today’s Weather Overview

Current Conditions (as of 5:00 AM CDT – Dryden Airport)

• Temperature: 15.8°C

• Humidity: 84%

• Dew Point: 13.1°C

• Wind: WSW at 11 km/h

• Visibility: 16 km (hazy from smoke)

• Pressure: 101.2 kPa (steady)

• Sky Conditions: Mainly Clear

• Air Quality Advisory: In effect

⚠️ Special Air Quality Statement in Effect

Wildfire smoke carried on westerly winds from northern Ontario is resulting in poor air quality and limited visibility across the region. The smoke is expected to linger into Wednesday, possibly longer depending on fire behavior and wind patterns.

Health & Safety Advice:

• Vulnerable individuals—including older adults, children, pregnant people, and those with pre-existing health conditions—should stay indoors and avoid strenuous activities.

• Close windows and doors to prevent smoke infiltration indoors.

• Use HEPA filters or certified portable air purifiers to reduce fine particle exposure.

• If you must be outdoors, consider a properly fitted N95 respirator mask.

• Watch for symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, or chest discomfort.

• Check on neighbors and community members who may need assistance.

For more tips: canada.ca/wildfire-smoke

Monday Forecast – July 14

Daytime

☀️ Sunny through the morning, with clouds increasing this afternoon.
🌦️ 60% chance of showers developing later in the day, with a risk of thunderstorms.
🌫️ Local smoke will continue to affect visibility and air quality.
🌬️ Winds shifting to the northwest at 20 km/h this morning.

• High: 24°C

• Humidex: 27

• UV Index: 7 (High)

Evening & Overnight

🌧️ Showers continue into the night with risk of thunderstorms.
💨 Winds remain light with persistent local smoke.

• Expected Rainfall: 10 to 20 mm

• Low: 14°C

Extended Outlook

Tuesday, July 15

🌧️ Showers throughout the day with risk of thunderstorms.
💨 Winds becoming northeast 20 km/h, gusting to 40.

• Rainfall: 15 to 25 mm

• High: 22°C | UV Index: 3 (Moderate)
  🌙 Night: Cloudy periods with a 30% chance of showers. Low 11°C.

Wednesday, July 16

🌤️ Mix of sun and cloud

• High: 21°C
  🌙 Night: Cloudy periods with 30% chance of showers. Low 11°C.

Thursday, July 17

☀️ Sunny and clear

• High: 25°C
  🌙 Night: Clear skies. Low 13°C

Wardrobe Recommendations

• Dress in light, breathable layers to stay comfortable in smoky, humid conditions.

• Bring rain gear or an umbrella for the expected afternoon and evening showers.

• If outdoors, wear a well-fitted mask to reduce smoke inhalation.

• Sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen are still recommended despite hazy skies due to UV exposure.

Weather Trivia

💡 Did you know? Dryden’s location near boreal forest makes it highly susceptible to smoke plumes from remote wildfires, especially when prevailing winds come from the northwest. This phenomenon can drastically reduce visibility and air quality even when fires are hundreds of kilometres away.