Bone-Chilling Cold with Frostbite Risks
Kenora is Ontario’s coldest spot this morning at -21°C, with wind chills near -30°C. Frostbite risks remain high as bitter cold continues all week
Kenora is officially Ontario’s cold spot this morning, and it certainly feels like it! As of 4:00 AM, the temperature sits at a brutal -20.8°C, but with the west-northwest wind at 11 km/h, the wind chill drags it down to a numbing -29°C. The humidity is at 81%, and while visibility remains excellent at 32 km, it’s hardly a reason to step outside and admire the view. The barometric pressure is at 102.0 kPa and rising, suggesting a period of stable but extremely cold weather ahead.
Clouds will increase early this morning, with a 30% chance of flurries arriving this afternoon. Winds will strengthen, becoming northwest at 20 km/h with gusts up to 40 km/h. The high will “warm up” to -17°C, but the wind chill will stubbornly hover around -30°C. Frostbite is a serious risk today, with exposed skin freezing in as little as 10 minutes. The UV index will be a low 1, not that anyone will be looking for sunshine in this deep freeze.
Tonight: Even Colder, with Dangerous Wind Chills
Partly cloudy conditions take over tonight, with a lingering 30% chance of flurries this evening. The northwest wind will continue at 20 km/h, gusting to 40 km/h. Temperatures will nosedive to -26°C, and the wind chill will make it feel like -28°C in the evening and a staggering -36°C overnight. These are conditions where frostbite is almost guaranteed if you’re outside unprotected. If you must be outdoors, layer up and keep all skin covered.
Tuesday: Sun, But Still Freezing Cold
Tuesday will bring some relief in the form of sunshine, but don’t expect it to bring warmth. Winds will ease slightly, staying up to 15 km/h. The high will be -16°C, but wind chills will make it feel like a brutal -35°C in the morning and -22°C in the afternoon. Once again, frostbite remains a major concern. The UV index stays low at 1.
Tuesday night will turn cloudy, with a low of -20°C.
Wednesday: Flurries Likely as Temperatures Rise Slightly
By midweek, the deep freeze loosens its grip just a little. Cloudy skies return, bringing a 60% chance of flurries and a slightly “warmer” high of -13°C. Wednesday night will stay cloudy, with another 60% chance of flurries and a low of -18°C.
What to Wear?
Dressing for this weather is all about survival, not fashion. A heavy-duty winter coat, thermal base layers, thick mittens, a hat, and a scarf are absolutely essential. Insulated boots will help protect against frostbite. If you’re heading outside—even for a few minutes—cover every bit of exposed skin.
Kenora’s Weather Trivia
Did you know? The coldest February 3rd on record in Kenora was an absolutely frigid -40.6°C in 1996. So while today’s -21°C feels harsh, at least it’s not that bad! On the flip side, the warmest February 3rd hit 2.4°C in 1991.
