Blowing Snow and an Arctic Plunge Highlight the Winter Forecast
Winter Grips Dryden and Vermilion Bay
It’s another classic northern Ontario winter day for Dryden and Vermilion Bay, with cloudy skies, snow, and strong winds shaping today’s forecast. As temperatures fall and winds strengthen, the region will experience local blowing snow, hazardous travel conditions, and an icy plunge into some of the coldest weather of the season. Residents, prepare to layer up—it’s about to get frosty!
Current Conditions: Cloudy and Windy
As of 6:00 AM CST, Dryden sits at -1.3°C under cloudy skies. Humidity is at 83%, with a brisk south-southwest wind blowing at 24 km/h, gusting to 37 km/h, making it feel like -7°C. Visibility is reduced to 16 km due to overcast skies, and barometric pressure is at 98.7 kPa, continuing to fall as the weather system develops.
Today’s Forecast: Snow and Blowing Snow
Friday will bring periods of snow beginning this morning, transitioning to scattered flurries by the afternoon. Expect 2 cm of accumulation, accompanied by winds that will shift direction and pick up in intensity. By this afternoon, northerly winds at 40 km/h, gusting to 60 km/h, will create local blowing snow, reducing visibility and making travel hazardous.
The high temperature for today will hover around -1°C, but with wind chills of -7°C in the morning dropping to a frosty -18°C by afternoon, it’ll feel much colder. If you’re heading outdoors, keep that in mind and dress accordingly.
Tonight: Winds Ease but Deep Freeze Sets In
The snow and blowing snow will taper off this evening, but the cold air will take over as temperatures drop dramatically. By tonight, the mercury will hit -24°C, with a bone-chilling wind chill of -34°C. Winds from the north will remain gusty in the evening, at 40 km/h gusting to 60 km/h, but will ease somewhat to 20 km/h, gusting to 40 km/h, near midnight.
With these conditions, frostbite will become a serious concern, so limit time outside, cover all exposed skin, and ensure pets are sheltered properly.
Weekend Outlook: Arctic Blast Arrives
Prepare for a weekend of bright skies and bitterly cold temperatures.
- Saturday, January 18: A mix of sun and cloud will greet the day, but it will remain frigid with a high of -21°C. The wind chill will feel closer to -36°C, and the risk of frostbite will be ever-present. Winds will blow from the northwest at 20 km/h, adding to the icy chill. Saturday night will be clear but brutally cold, with a low of -32°C.
- Sunday, January 19: Sunny skies dominate, but the high will only reach -25°C, with overnight temperatures plummeting to -33°C.
- Monday, January 20: Another sunny day, with daytime highs near -26°C and an overnight low of -35°C, making this one of the coldest stretches in recent years.
Historic Weather for January 17
Historically, Dryden has seen milder January 17s, with a record high of 5.4°C, set in 1944. On the flip side, the record low for this date was a teeth-chattering -41.7°C, recorded in 1982. While this year won’t break any records, it’ll definitely remind residents why winter is no joke in northern Ontario.
Wardrobe and Travel Tips
With snow, wind, and temperatures that feel like the Arctic, now is not the time to skimp on your winter wardrobe. Insulated, windproof jackets, thermal gloves, and heavy-duty boots are a must. Cover your face and ears with a scarf or balaclava to protect against frostbite, and don’t forget wool socks to keep your toes toasty.
For travelers, the combination of blowing snow and icy roads will make for hazardous conditions. If you must drive, pack an emergency kit, keep extra blankets in the car, and drive cautiously—visibility could be reduced suddenly. Postpone non-essential travel if possible, and don’t forget to check road conditions before heading out.
Fun Weather Fact: How Cold is -35°C?
Ever wondered how cold -35°C really feels? At this temperature, exposed skin can freeze in as little as 10 minutes. That’s why frostbite becomes such a serious risk when wind chills are factored in, as they amplify heat loss from the body. It’s also cold enough to make your eyelashes freeze—something Dryden residents are all too familiar with!
Weather Overview
Dryden and Vermilion Bay weather: Snow, blowing snow, and gusty winds up to 60 km/h today. Wind chill drops to -34°C overnight. Bitter cold weekend ahead.
