Kenora – WEATHER – Snowfall and drifting snow are making for tricky travel in the Kenora–Lake of the Woods area this morning, with icy, snow-covered stretches and changing visibility along Highway 17. Police are urging drivers to slow down and plan for delays as winter conditions continue.

Today’s Weather Overview

Current Conditions (6:00 AM CST — Kenora Airport)

Kenora started the day under light snow and drifting snow, with the temperature at -9.7°C (showing as -10°C) and a wind chill of -16. Winds were southerly at 14 km/h, and visibility was 8 km—good enough to drive, but vulnerable to quick drops if snow bands intensify or drifting increases. Pressure was 99.6 kPa and falling, a sign the system is still moving through.

What to expect today (Tuesday)

Environment Canada says snow ends late this morning, then skies turn cloudy with a 60% chance of light snowthrough the afternoon. Additional snow amounts are 2 to 4 cm. Winds are expected to shift—south 20 km/h gusting 40, then northwest 30 km/h gusting 50 early, becoming west 20 late this afternoon—a setup that can kick up blowing/drifting snow on exposed highways, even after steadier snowfall eases. High temperature: -7°C with wind chill near -22.

Highway 17 Travel Advisory

OPP are warning that conditions around Kenora and along Highway 17 may be extremely slippery, with snow-covered pavement and visibility that can change quickly.

If you must travel today:

• Reduce speed and drive to conditions

• Increase following distance

• Clear snow/ice from windows, mirrors, lights, and roof

• Use headlights (not just daytime running lights)

• Avoid sudden braking or sharp steering

• Give snowplows and emergency vehicles extra space—slow down and move over

• Keep a winter emergency kit in your vehicle

• Check road conditions before departing (Ontario 511 is a good go-to)

Expected Conditions (Next Three Days)

Tonight (Tue night)

A sharp drop follows the daytime snow: partly cloudy, with a 30% chance of flurries this evening and after midnight. Winds remain NW 30 km/h gusting 50, then ease before morning. Low -23°C with wind chill near -30 and a risk of frostbite.

Wednesday, Feb. 25

A brighter but still bitter day: mainly sunny, wind up to 15 km/h, high -11°C. Morning wind chill near -31, improving to around -14 in the afternoon. Frostbite risk remains for prolonged exposure.

Thursday, Feb. 26

Clouds return with a 30% chance of flurries, high near -1°C. Thursday night: 40% chance of flurries, low around -4°C.

Heads-up: There are no Environment Canada alerts currently in effect for Kenora–Grassy Narrows–Whitedog, but road conditions can still be hazardous even without a formal warning.

Wardrobe Recommendations

• This morning/afternoon (snow + drifting): Winter parka with a windproof outer layer, insulated boots, warm mitts, and a neck warmer. If you’re driving, keep spare gloves and a toque in the vehicle.

• Tonight (wind chill near -30): Upgrade to full cold-weather gear—thermal base layer, insulated pants, face covering if you’re outside for more than a few minutes.

• Wednesday: Dress for sun and cold—sunny doesn’t mean mild. Wind chill will still bite early.

Weather Trivia

Kenora has a reputation for real-deal winters: in Environment and Climate Change Canada’s “Top 10 Weather Stories” archive, Kenora’s winter in 2014 was noted as the coldest and snowiest since 1938, when record-keeping began.

Summary:
Kenora & Lake of the Woods weather for Feb. 24, 2026: light snow and drifting snow this morning with icy Highway 17 travel, snow ending late morning, gusty wind shifts bringing local blowing snow risk, then a bitter cold drop tonight with wind chills near -30 and frostbite risk.