Thunder Bay braces for Arctic air with frigid temperatures of -28°C tonight and a wind chill near -39°C. Risk of frostbite, sunny skies, and deep freeze ahead!
Thunder Bay – WEATHER If you’ve been dreaming of January’s mild streak, it’s time to wake up! The Arctic chill is firmly settling into Thunder Bay this weekend, and it’s not taking prisoners. With frostbite warnings, biting winds, and bone-chilling temperatures, it’s time to layer up like you’re starring in a survival movie.
We dodged the Snow Squall Warning and threatened snowfall. Which is a relief who would want to dig out in the freezing cold!
Let’s dive into the forecast.
Current Conditions: A Cold, Clear Morning
As of 7:00 AM EST at the Thunder Bay Airport, the morning greets you with clear skies and temperatures sitting at a frigid -18°C. But don’t be fooled by the sunny outlook – wind gusts from the northwest at 17 km/h, reaching up to 33 km/h, have dragged the wind chill down to a bone-numbing -27. The barometric pressure is sitting at 101.5 kPa and rising, while the humidity is relatively low at 63%. Visibility is excellent at 24 km, so at least you can clearly see the cold coming!
Today’s Forecast: Risk of Frostbite, Bundle Up
A mix of sun and cloud dominates the sky today, with a 30% chance of flurries this morning to keep you on your toes. Northwest winds will continue to blow at 20 km/h, gusting up to 40 km/h, keeping the wind chill near -29. The daytime high will be a frosty -16°C, but it will feel much colder thanks to those gusty winds. If you’re stepping outside, risk of frostbite is real, so cover up exposed skin.
Tonight: Temperatures Plummet
The Arctic chill deepens tonight, with only a few clouds to keep the stars company. Winds will start to ease late this evening, eventually becoming light, but the damage is already done – the low will drop to a brutal -28°C. Add in the wind chill, and it will feel like a staggering -39°C overnight. Yet again, frostbite is a serious risk, so any outdoor plans should involve extra precautions and warm clothing.
Extended Forecast: A Deep Freeze Lingers
Sunday, January 19th will bring mainly sunny skies, but don’t let the sunshine fool you. Morning wind chills will be at a dangerous -39°C before improving slightly to -30°C in the afternoon. The high will only reach -21°C, and frostbite remains a concern throughout the day. Overnight, expect cloudy periods with a low of -30°C.
Monday, January 20th continues the deep freeze with a mix of sun and cloud and a high of -23°C. The nighttime low will dip to an almost unthinkable -32°C under clear skies.
Tuesday, January 21st offers sunny skies and a high of -20°C, but clouds will return overnight as the low moderates somewhat to -25°C.
Historic Temperatures: January 18th
On this date in history, the warmest temperature ever recorded in Thunder Bay was a relatively balmy 7.2°C, while the coldest was a toe-freezing -36.7°C. Today’s forecast might not break records, but it’s certainly leaning toward the colder side of history.
Wardrobe Wisdom: Arctic Survival Edition
It’s not just cold, it’s “why-am-I-here?” cold. Start with thermal base layers, add thick sweaters, and finish with an insulated parka. Don’t forget a windproof hat, a scarf to shield your face, and waterproof gloves. Winter boots are mandatory – frostbite doesn’t care about fashion.
Thunder Bay Weather Trivia
Did you know Thunder Bay’s name comes from the stunning bay on Lake Superior? This time of year, however, that “Superior” part feels ironic. In fact, Lake Superior itself can contribute to local weather patterns, intensifying cold snaps like the one we’re in. It’s also known for creating lake-effect snow, though today you’re spared – just don’t expect it to feel like summer by the water anytime soon.
