As the northern communities of Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug, Bearskin Lake First Nation, Sachigo Lake First Nation, Kasabonika First Nation, and Sandy Lake First Nation brace against a chilly start, the weather forecast sourced from Big Trout Lake Airport reveals a demanding pattern of snow and cold as we head into the Easter weekend.
Today’s Weather Overview
Current Conditions:
With light snow falling and a brisk north-northwest wind gusting from 15 to 30 km/h, the early hours in these communities feel significantly colder than the -11.1°C indicates, thanks to a wind chill of -18. Visibility stands at 16 km, suggesting that while snow is present, it doesn’t severely limit visibility. The high humidity of 87% accentuates the cold, penetrating through layers and necessitating proper winter gear.
Tomorrow’s Forecast
Expected Conditions: The extended weather forecast points to challenging conditions, with today’s snowfall anticipated to accumulate 2 to 4 cm. The northwest wind will strengthen, reaching speeds of 30 km/h and gusting up to 50 km/h. The temperature will struggle to reach a high of -7°C, while wind chills in the morning dip to a frigid -22, becoming slightly milder at -14 in the afternoon under a low UV index of 1.
Tonight will see continued periods of snow, adding another 2 cm on the ground. The wind persists, albeit slightly lessened to northwest 20 km/h gusting to 40, pulling down the temperature to a low of -15°C and a wind chill that plunges to -21 overnight.
Friday, March 29: Light snow ends in the morning, making way for a mix of sun and cloud with a 30 percent chance of flurries. Despite the wind maintaining its strength from the northwest at 20 km/h and gusts up to 40, the high will reach -2°C. Morning wind chills are particularly harsh at -24, improving to -8 in the afternoon alongside a moderate UV index of 3.
Saturday, March 30: Clouds dominate, with a high barely rising to -2°C and a night that becomes even colder, dropping to -17°C.
Sunday, March 31: The cloudy trend continues, with temperatures struggling to reach -6°C, followed by a night of cloudy periods and a low of -16°C.
Monday, April 1: A mix of sun and cloud brings a slight improvement, with a high of -1°C. However, the night remains cold under cloudy periods, with temperatures falling to -14°C.
Wardrobe Recommendations:
In light of the forecast, it’s essential to prioritize warmth: insulated jackets, thermal layers, hats, gloves, and waterproof boots are necessary. Sunglasses may find some use during brief sunny intervals, but the main focus should be on protection against the cold and snow.
Weather Trivia:
The resilience of these northern communities in facing such demanding weather conditions underscores the importance of understanding and preparing for local climate patterns, especially as seasons transition.
