Winter Wallop: Snowfall Warning Sweeps Through Kenora, Dryden, Fort Frances & Ignace

THUNDER BAY – WEATHER – Communities stretching from Kenora to Fort Frances and Ignace are bracing for a classic late-March snowstorm. Environment Canada has issued a Snowfall Warning, forecasting 15 to 25 cm of snow across the region. Areas along Highway 17 are especially advised to prepare for reduced visibility and very slick driving conditions—time to reschedule that scenic drive.

Current Conditions & Weather Breakdown: March 27, 2025

As of this afternoon, skies are beginning to cloud over across the region as the incoming low-pressure system pushes in from the west. Let’s break down the expected conditions for each area:

Kenora

Currently sitting at -3°C, with east winds at 30 km/h, gusting to 45. Humidity is 80%, and barometric pressure is at 100.8 kPa. Snow is expected to begin by this evening, with 15 to 25 cm falling by Friday night.

Dryden

Dryden’s current temperature is -4°C, winds from the east at 28 km/h, humidity at 84%, and pressure steady at 100.9 kPa. Snow will begin tonight and become heavy through Friday. Roads may become impassable if snowfall rates exceed plowing capacity.

Fort Frances

At -2°C, Fort Frances is slightly warmer, with winds from the southeast at 25 km/h, and a humid 86% atmosphere. Pressure is 100.7 kPa. A mix of snow and possible ice pellets is expected during the day Friday due to proximity to the Minnesota border, possibly lowering snow totals slightly compared to more northern areas.

Ignace & Highway 17 Corridor

Ignace is already feeling the system build-up. Current temps are around -5°C, with east winds gusting to 35 km/h. The snow is expected to start overnight and pick up significantly Friday. Highway 17 travelers should avoid non-essential travel—visibility will drop quickly, and road conditions may worsen through the day.

Friday Outlook: Travel Headaches and Snow Removal Woes

Snowfall will be heaviest during the day Friday, with some mixing possible closer to the U.S. border. Most of the region will see between 15 and 25 cm by the time the snow tapers off Friday night. Gusty winds will blow the fluffy snow around, leading to whiteout conditions on exposed roads.