Snow and Wind Take the Spotlight
This morning, temperatures hover just above freezing at 1°C in Fort Frances and the surrounding areas, with 95% humidity adding to the chill. While conditions are currently unobserved, the forecast calls for a snowy and breezy day ahead. Winds are light from the south at 9 km/h but will pick up significantly by noon.
Today’s Forecast: Snow and Gusty Winds
Expect periods of snow throughout the day, with 2 cm of accumulation likely. Winds will shift to the west, increasing to 20 km/h gusting to 40 km/h near midday. While the temperature will remain steady at -1°C, the wind chill will make it feel like -9°C by the afternoon.
Tonight: Snow Tapers Off, but the Chill Deepens
Snow will taper off late this evening, leaving behind cloudy skies with a 40% chance of flurries. Westerly winds will strengthen further, reaching 30 km/h with gusts up to 50 km/h. Temperatures will drop to -10°C, with an overnight wind chill plunging to a bitter -17°C.
The Week Ahead: Cold and Cloudy
- Tuesday, December 17: Overcast skies persist, with a 40% chance of flurries. Winds will ease to 15 km/h, but the high of -8°C will feel like -17°C with the wind chill.
- Tuesday Night: Cloudy skies and colder air dominate, as temperatures fall to -19°C.
- Wednesday, December 18: A mix of sun and cloud will brighten the day, but the high will struggle to reach -14°C.
- Wednesday Night: Expect a low of -19°C under partly cloudy skies.
- Thursday, December 19: Clouds return with a 40% chance of flurries and a high of -10°C. Flurries are likely overnight, with lows dropping back to -19°C.
Historic Weather Note
On this day, Fort Frances has experienced milder highs of 7.2°C and frigid lows of -35.6°C—quite the range for mid-December!
Wardrobe Tip for Today
Snow boots and a warm coat are essential for today’s wintry mix. Add a scarf and gloves to stay comfortable against the afternoon wind chill of -9°C.
Weather Trivia
Did you know Fort Frances lies on the edge of the Rainy Lake watershed? The lake’s proximity can amplify snowfall under the right conditions, making today’s snow event even more interesting to watch!
