Winnipeg – National Weather – Winnipeg residents are starting the day with widespread wildfire smoke and mostly cloudy skies, as an Air Quality Warning remains in effect. Environment Canada is warning of reduced visibility and health risks tied to lingering smoke, expected to persist through tonight, with gradual improvement Thursday. Temperatures are cooler today but will rise significantly into the weekend, culminating in a sunny 30°C Friday. Residents are urged to limit outdoor activities and take steps to protect their indoor air quality.

Today’s Weather Overview

Current Conditions (as of 7:00 AM CDT):

• Temperature: 13.2°C

• Dew Point: 12.3°C

• Humidity: 94%

• Wind: NNW at 4 km/h

• Barometric Pressure: 101.4 kPa (rising)

• Visibility: 16 km

• Condition: Mostly Cloudy with widespread smoke forecast

Cool and damp conditions early this morning may give way to patchy showers. Smoke remains widespread across the region, although it may thin slightly by evening. Humidex values will remain relatively mild at 26°C today.

Tomorrow’s Forecast

Expected Conditions (July 24 – July 26):

Thursday, July 24:

• Day: Sunny morning turning into a mix of sun and cloud. Local smoke continues.

  • High: 25°C

  • Humidex: 27

  • UV Index: 7 (High)

• Night: Clear and mild.

  • Low: 15°C

Friday, July 25:

• Day: Sunny and hot, marking a sharp warm-up.

  • High: 30°C

• Night: Becoming cloudy with a 60% chance of showers.

  • Low: 18°C

Saturday, July 26:

• Day: Skies clear again with seasonal warmth.

  • High: 27°C

• Night: Clear and comfortable.

  • Low: 17°C

While air quality improves by Thursday, lingering smoke and heat on Friday could still pose health concerns for some. Expect excellent conditions for outdoor activities by Saturday if smoke continues to dissipate.

Wardrobe Recommendations

Dress smart to stay comfortable and safe under variable conditions:

• Today:

  • Layer up for the cool morning but wear breathable summer clothing for the afternoon.

  • N95 or equivalent mask if outdoors for long periods.

  • Avoid strenuous outdoor activity.

• Thursday:

  • Light summer wear with sun protection.

  • Carry water and sunscreen with a UV index of 7.

• Friday:

  • Stay hydrated and wear loose, light-colored clothing for the heat.

  • A rain jacket or umbrella may be needed in the evening.

Weather Trivia

Did you know?
Winnipeg experienced some of its worst air quality days on record during the July 2021 wildfires, with AQHI values reaching “Very High Risk” for multiple days in a row. Wildfire smoke can travel thousands of kilometres, and under the right weather conditions, can descend to ground level in just hours, severely impacting urban centers like Winnipeg even when fires are hundreds of kilometres away.