At 5:30 am CST, Pickle Lake airport, bustling as a crucial cargo hub for shipments to the north, reports light snow and a temperature of -7°C. Despite the weather, operations continue with vigor under the glow of early morning lights. Humidity stands at 87%, with southwest winds at 17 km/h creating a wind chill of a relatively mild -14°C.
Early Morning Activity
The day begins with a flurry of activity at the airport, not just in the skies but on the ground as well, as workers navigate the challenges posed by light snowfall. The weather has yet to deter the essential movement of goods, highlighting the resilience and importance of this northern logistic point.
Today’s Weather Shifts
The forecast anticipates periods of light snow and local blowing snow ending by late this afternoon, leaving behind approximately 2 cm of fresh snow. Winds are expected to shift from southwest at 20 km/h, gusting to 40, then to north at 40 km/h, gusting to 60.
The temperature will reach a high of -4°C, but wind chills will make it feel as cold as -13°C in the morning and -24°C in the afternoon, signaling a significant drop as the day progresses.
Frostbite Impact Alert in Effect
Tonight, the weather will clear slightly to partly cloudy skies, but with north winds at 30 km/h gusting to 50, temperatures will plummet to -26°C. The evening wind chill will start at -24°C, worsening to -37°C overnight. Such extreme cold introduces a considerable risk of frostbite, urging residents and workers alike to take necessary precautions.
Looking Ahead
The weekend outlook promises a mix of conditions, starting with sunny skies on Friday and a high of -11°C. The morning wind chill could reach a biting -36°C, slightly improving to -18°C in the afternoon. The night will be clear with a low of -18°C.
Saturday’s forecast calls for cloudy skies with a high of -4°C, leading into a night with a 40% chance of flurries and a low of -8°C. Sunday offers a balance of sun and cloud with a high of -9°C, closing with a clear night and a low of -14°C.
For Thunder Bay and Northwestern Ontario residents, Pickle Lake’s weather report is a reminder of the region’s dynamic and often harsh winter conditions. It underscores the critical role of northern cargo hubs in maintaining supply chains, even amidst challenging weather.
