Smoke Advisory in Effect as Gusty Winds and Stormy Weather Move In
A Special Air Quality Statement remains in place for Big Trout Lake and Kasabonika, where smoke from Prairie wildfires has caused poor air quality and visibility. While the day begins calm and cool, gusty winds and increasing cloud cover will usher in showers and potential thunderstorms by tonight. Smoke-related health risks remain elevated, especially for vulnerable individuals — limit outdoor exposure and monitor symptoms closely.
Today’s Weather Overview
Current Conditions (as of 6:13 AM CDT at Big Trout Lake Airport)
-
Temperature: 12.1°C
-
Wind: West at 9 km/h
-
Humidity: 94%
-
Dew Point: 11.2°C
-
Pressure: 101.5 kPa
-
Visibility: 4 km (mist and smoke present)
-
Sky Conditions: Misty with limited visibility due to local smoke
Today, expect sunny skies early, becoming a mix of sun and cloud this afternoon. Local smoke will continue to reduce air quality. Winds will shift and strengthen, becoming south at 30 km/h, gusting to 50 km/h by late morning. Temperatures will rise to 25°C, with a humidex of 27, and the UV index will reach 6 – high.
Tonight’s Outlook
-
Conditions: Mainly cloudy, with showers beginning this evening and a risk of thunderstorms overnight.
-
Rainfall Amounts: 15 to 25 mm possible
-
Winds: South 30 km/h gusting to 50, shifting to northwest 30, then southwest 30 gusting to 50 after midnight
-
Low: 18°C
Smoke Advisory – Health & Safety Guidance
-
Health Risks: Eye/nose/throat irritation, headaches, coughing, and breathing issues
-
Vulnerable Groups: Seniors, children, pregnant people, outdoor workers, and those with heart/lung conditions
-
Protection Tips:
-
Remain indoors with windows/doors closed
-
Use certified HEPA air filters or portable air cleaners
-
Wear an N95 mask outdoors if exposure is unavoidable
-
Check in on neighbours, especially those who live alone or are at higher risk
-
Visit airhealth.ca for real-time air quality data and protective tips.
Weekend Forecast
Saturday, July 26:
Morning thunderstorms possible, followed by mainly cloudy skies and a 30% chance of showers. Local smoke continues. Winds remain strong: southwest 30 km/h gusting to 50, shifting to northwest 30 gusting to 50 in the afternoon.
-
High: 24°C
-
Humidex: 29
-
UV Index: 6 – high
Saturday Night:
Clear skies expected.
-
Low: 14°C
Sunday, July 27:
A mix of sun and cloud with a 40% chance of showers.
-
High: 26°C
Sunday Night:
Cloudy with a 60% chance of showers.
-
Low: 14°C
Monday, July 28:
A mix of sun and cloud with a 40% chance of showers.
-
High: 21°C
Monday Night:
Clear skies return.
-
Low: 9°C
Wardrobe Recommendations
-
Today: Layered clothing for cool mornings and a warm afternoon. Sunglasses and sunblock are essential. A mask is recommended outdoors if smoke is visible or irritating.
-
Saturday/Sunday: Waterproof jackets and shoes are recommended, especially with gusty winds and thunderstorm risks. Secure loose outdoor items due to strong wind gusts.
-
Monday: Lighter layers will suit the slightly cooler air — a welcome break from the weekend’s stormy pattern.
Weather Trivia
Did You Know?
Smoke particles from wildfires can travel hundreds or even thousands of kilometres, and are most dangerous when they mix with fog and mist, like this morning in Big Trout Lake. Fine particulate matter in smoke can infiltrate homes and even small breathing spaces — making indoor air filters critical for remote communities.
