Thunder Bay is transitioning from the crisp, chilly mornings of early fall to milder afternoons. Over the next few days, residents will experience sunny skies, warmer temperatures, and a break from the harsher winds of early fall.
Here’s a detailed look at the weather forecast for October 16, 17, and 18, 2024, including current conditions, wardrobe suggestions, and local weather trivia.
Current Conditions for Thunder Bay (6:00 AM, October 16, 2024)
- Temperature: -3°C
- Wind: WSW at 7 km/h
- Wind Chill: -5°C
- Barometric Pressure: 102.9 kPa, falling
- Humidity: 91%
- Visibility: 24 km
- Dew Point: -3.8°C
- Condition: Clear skies
Despite the chilly start this morning, a significant warm-up is expected by the afternoon.
Forecast for October 16, 2024
Today will be sunny with southwest winds increasing to 20 km/h, gusting up to 40 km/h later in the morning. The high will reach a pleasant 14°C, but the morning wind chill will make it feel like -12°C, so it’s important to dress warmly in the morning hours. By the evening, winds will ease, becoming light, and the temperature will drop to a low of 2°C under clear skies.
Sunrise: 8:12 AM
Sunset: 6:55 PM
Wardrobe Suggestions: Start the day with warm layers, including a hat and gloves to handle the wind chill. As temperatures rise in the afternoon, you can switch to lighter outerwear, such as a fleece or a jacket. Be prepared for gusty winds, which will make it feel cooler despite the sunshine.
Forecast for October 17, 2024
Thursday will bring more sunshine and even warmer temperatures, with highs reaching 15°C. Winds will shift to the south, blowing at 20 km/h and gusting up to 40 km/h in the morning. The evening will remain clear, with the temperature dropping to a low of 4°C.
Sunrise: 8:13 AM
Sunset: 6:53 PM
Wardrobe Suggestions: Dress in light layers for the afternoon warmth, but keep a windbreaker handy for the gusts of wind, particularly during the morning commute. A sweater or light jacket will be ideal for the evening as temperatures cool.
Forecast for October 18, 2024
Friday promises another sunny and mild day, with temperatures rising to 16°C. Winds will be calm, making it a perfect day for outdoor activities. Clouds will increase in the evening, and there’s a 30% chance of showers overnight, with temperatures dipping to 5°C.
Sunrise: 8:15 AM
Sunset: 6:51 PM
Wardrobe Suggestions: With calm winds and sunny skies, a light jacket or sweater will be more than sufficient during the day. For the evening, it’s wise to carry an umbrella or rain jacket in case of showers as clouds move in overnight.
Weather Trivia for Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay experiences significant temperature fluctuations during the fall due to its location along the shores of Lake Superior. The lake has a moderating effect on temperatures, helping to keep autumns milder, but it also contributes to dramatic shifts, such as cold mornings followed by unseasonably warm afternoons. October is often a month of pleasant surprises, with days of sunshine and warmth, but as the month progresses, residents should prepare for the onset of early snow.
One interesting fact is that Thunder Bay holds the record for Ontario’s coldest-ever October day, reaching -20°C in October 1939. However, with this week’s forecast, it looks like residents can enjoy a few more days of warmth before winter truly begins to set in.
