Smokey Skies to Remain Until Thursday

Dryden – Weather – A thick veil of wildfire smoke continues to blanket Dryden and Vermilion Bay, prompting an Air Quality Warning from Environment Canada.

As extremely high pollution levels persist across the region, residents are advised to take precautions to protect their health.

The smoke, originating from Prairie wildfires, is expected to remain in the area until at least Thursday.

Today’s Weather Overview

Current Conditions

• Temperature: 12.1°C

• Condition: Haze

• Observed at: Dryden Airport, 6:00 AM CDT

• Pressure: 102.6 kPa (Rising)

• Humidity: 81%

• Wind: North-northwest at 9 km/h

• Visibility: 6 km

Skies remain obscured by smoke, reducing visibility and causing discomfort for many. Conditions are likely to deteriorate again this afternoon as winds shift and bring in more smoke from the west.

Forecast Into the Weekend

Expected Conditions

• Wednesday, July 30: Widespread smoke throughout the day. Winds shifting to the north at 20 km/h, gusting up to 40. High of 21°C, UV index 7 (high).

• Tonight: Partly cloudy with lingering local smoke. Winds easing to light this evening. Low of 10°C.

• Thursday, July 31: Sunny, but smoke continues to linger. Winds turning northwest at 20 km/h in the afternoon. High of 23°C. UV index 6 (high).

• Friday, August 1: Sunny and warm. High of 26°C.

• Saturday, August 2: Another bright and sunny day. High of 26°C.
  Nights through the weekend remain clear, with lows between 12–15°C.

Wardrobe Recommendations

• Mask Up: If venturing outside, wear a NIOSH-certified N95 respirator to reduce exposure to smoke particles.

• Light Jackets or Layers: With cool morning starts and warm afternoons, light layers are ideal.

• Sunglasses: Eye irritation is common in smoky conditions.

• Limit Outdoor Activity: Especially if you are in a sensitive group (children, elderly, pregnant individuals, or those with respiratory conditions).

Weather Trivia

Did you know? Wildfire smoke contains fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which is small enough to travel deep into your lungs and even enter your bloodstream. This is why health authorities issue Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) warnings when levels spike — especially in regions like Dryden that frequently sit downwind of Prairie fire zones.