Heavy Snowfall Expected to Impact Travel Across Northwestern Ontario
Winter’s not giving up just yet in Kenora, Grassy Narrows, and Whitedog, where a Winter Weather Travel Advisory is in effect. Environment Canada is warning of 10 to 15 cm of snow, with visibility and travel expected to deteriorate throughout the day and into early Thursday morning.
Today’s Forecast: Light Snow Now, Heavy Bursts to Follow
At 4:00 AM CDT, the Kenora Airport is reporting light snow, a temperature of -0.9°C, and a dew point of -4.7°C. Humidity is 75%, and visibility remains a good 24 km—for now. Winds are from the southeast at 18 km/h, producing a wind chill of -6°C. Barometric pressure is 101.1 kPa and falling, confirming that this system is moving in fast.
Snowfall will increase throughout the morning, with peak rates of 2 to 3 cm per hour possible. Accumulations of 5 to 10 cm are expected today, with another 5 cm overnight, especially in areas closer to Lac Seul where heavier bands may persist into the evening.
The wind will shift to the east at 20 km/h gusting to 40 km/h, causing drifting snow and reducing visibility during heavier bursts. Roads, sidewalks, and parking lots will become snow-covered and slippery, especially as temperatures hover around the freezing mark.
Tonight: More Snow, Then a Slight Thaw
Snow is expected to continue through the evening, tapering off just before midnight. Flurries may linger into early Thursday morning, keeping conditions unsettled. Temperatures tonight will dip to -2°C, with a wind chill near -7°C.
Thursday Outlook: Cloudy but Calmer
Thursday brings relief from the snow, with mainly cloudy skies and calmer winds up to 15 km/h. The high will climb to a milder +6°C, offering a slight reprieve and the potential for some slushy melting during the afternoon hours.
Looking Ahead: More Flurries, Then a Gradual Spring Tease
Friday will be a mix of sun and cloud with a 30% chance of flurries or light rain, and a high of +5°C. Temperatures will remain below freezing at night. Saturday continues the on-again, off-again flurry trend with a high near +3°C and lows dipping to -11°C—definitely a reminder that it’s still early April in the north.
Historic April 2 in Kenora
Kenora’s warmest April 2 on record was a balmy 16.4°C in 1991, while the coldest dipped to a chilly -25.0°C in 1975. Today’s stormy -1°C sits squarely between extremes, leaning into winter’s final curtain call.
What to Wear: Full Snow Gear Required
Bundle up in your winter armor—a snowproof jacket, boots with serious tread, gloves, and a toque are must-haves today. If you’re on the roads, consider extra time and winter tires. Visibility may disappear quickly with the heavier bands of snow and gusty winds.
Kenora Weather Trivia: Lake Effect’s Last Laugh
Did you know? Kenora’s proximity to Lake of the Woods can enhance late-season snowfall, especially with easterly winds like today. Spring may be on the calendar, but winter has one more curtain call—and it’s taking the stage today.
