Snowy Conditions and Arctic Cold: Kenora Prepares for a Winter Wallop

Lake of the Woods Region Faces Blowing Snow and an Arctic Chill

Snow, Wind, and a Temperature Tumble in Kenora

Kenora and the Lake of the Woods region are waking up to winter’s full force today, Friday, January 17, 2025.

With light snow already falling and winds whipping up a frosty brew, the region will see rapidly deteriorating conditions by the afternoon. A fresh blanket of snow and strong winds will create blowing snow, plummeting temperatures, and dangerously low wind chills. If you’re a fan of dramatic winter weather, congratulations! For everyone else, it might be time to call in that work-from-home day.

Current Conditions: A Snowy Start

At 3:00 AM CST, Kenora was already seeing light snow and drifting snow, with temperatures sitting at -1.3°C. Humidity levels were at 76%, and the wind was coming from the south-southwest at 21 km/h, gusting to 39 km/h, creating a wind chill of -7°C. Visibility remains decent at 24 km, but this won’t last as the day progresses. The barometric pressure is at 98.9 kPa and falling, signaling that today’s storm system is digging in.

Today’s Forecast: Snow and a Plunge in Temperatures

Snow will continue through the day, with 2 to 4 cm expected to accumulate. By afternoon, the winds will shift to the north and strengthen to 30 km/h, gusting to 50 km/h, causing local blowing snow. This will reduce visibility and make travel treacherous.

Temperatures will drop sharply, falling to -11°C by the afternoon. With the increased wind speeds, the wind chill will sink to -19°C, and frostbite will become a concern for those spending prolonged periods outdoors.

Tonight: Frosty and Clear

As night falls, the snow will taper off, but local blowing snow could persist through the evening. Winds from the north will remain brisk at 30 km/h, gusting to 50 km/h, before easing slightly. Temperatures will plummet to -27°C overnight, with a wind chill making it feel like a bone-numbing -37°C. At these levels, frostbite can occur in minutes, so bundle up and keep exposed skin covered.

Weekend Outlook: Clear Skies, Deep Freeze

Kenora will emerge from the snowstorm into a stretch of sunny but brutally cold weather.

• Saturday, January 18: Bright and sunny skies will bring little relief, with a high of -20°C and a risk of frostbite throughout the day. Saturday night will be clear but frigid, with temperatures plunging to -31°C.
• Sunday, January 19: Expect more sunshine but colder temperatures, with a high of -23°C and an overnight low of -33°C.
• Monday, January 20: Another sunny day with a daytime high of -25°C and another clear, cold night at -32°C.

Historic Weather for January 17

For January 17 in Kenora’s history, the warmest recorded high was 3.3°C in 1981, a far cry from today’s conditions. The record low, a bitter -40.0°C, was set in 1982, proving that this region knows how to embrace the cold.

Wardrobe and Travel Tips

If you’re heading out today, prepare for the two big W’s: wind and wind chill. Wear insulated, windproof outerwear, and don’t forget thermal gloves, scarves, and toques. Winter boots with good grip are a must to handle the snowy and icy conditions.

For those traveling, keep an emergency kit in your car with extra blankets, food, and water. Visibility will likely be reduced by blowing snow, so drive cautiously and ensure your lights are on. If you can, consider postponing travel until conditions improve.

Fun Weather Fact: Why Does Blowing Snow Drift So Much?

Blowing snow is caused by strong winds lifting loose snow off the ground, creating those dramatic drifts. Fun fact: snowdrifts can grow as high as your car roof under the right conditions—so don’t be surprised if you need a shovel after today’s weather drama!

Synopsis

Kenora weather: Snow, blowing snow, and dropping temperatures with wind chills hitting -19°C. Overnight low of -27°C with wind chills near -37°C. Stay warm and safe.