Thunder Bay remains under an Extreme Cold Warning, with wind chills near -40°C. Frostbite risk is high, and bitter cold persists into midweek. Stay safe and bundle up!
Brace Yourselves, Thunder Bay: Frostbite in Minutes!
Winter’s icy grasp has tightened over Thunder Bay, and residents are urged to prepare for unrelenting Arctic cold. An Extreme Cold Warning remains in effect, with wind chill values plunging to near -40°C, creating dangerous conditions for both people and pets. The extreme cold is expected to last through Tuesday afternoon and could extend into Wednesday in some areas. Whether you’re running errands or just peeking out the window, it’s time to embrace the layers—lots and lots of layers!
Regarding Winter FunDays on Sunday, January 19th, 2025
Due to the weather conditions at Chapples Golf Course, outdoor scheduled Winter FunDays activities are cancelled to ensure public safety.
Indoor activities will continue at the Baggage Building Arts Centre in Marina Park from 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm.
Visit www.thunderbay.ca/winterfundays for more information.
Current Conditions in Thunder Bay
As of 9:00 AM EST Sunday, January 19, 2025, the temperature sits at a frigid -30°C, with a brisk west-northwest wind blowing at 17 km/h, making it feel like a teeth-chattering -42°C. The skies are mainly sunny, but don’t let that fool you—it’s bitterly cold. The barometric pressure is at 102.7 kPa and falling, signaling stable but icy weather ahead. Humidity is relatively low at 62%, and visibility is excellent at 24 km, though frostbite can occur in mere minutes on exposed skin.
For the record, today’s historic weather high for January 19 was 3.7°C in 1996, a far cry from this morning’s deep freeze. Meanwhile, the record low for this date hit -41.7°C in 1982, so at least it’s not the coldest Thunder Bay has ever seen!
Today’s Forecast: Cold on Top of Cold
Expect mainly sunny skies today, but the thermometer will struggle to rise past -21°C. With a light northwest wind at 20 km/h, wind chill values will hover near -39°C in the morning and improve slightly to -30°C by afternoon. Frostbite remains a major risk, so covering up is non-negotiable.
Tonight, temperatures will drop to an icy -30°C, with light winds making it feel closer to -39°C. Skies will remain mostly clear, offering excellent stargazing for the brave (or extremely well-dressed). However, frostbite risks remain high, so limit your outdoor exposure.
Monday’s Forecast: More Arctic Air
Monday brings more sunshine, but don’t expect much relief. The high will peak at -22°C, with wind chills sitting at a painful -39°C in the morning and improving only slightly to -32°C by the afternoon. Overnight, the temperature will plunge further to -31°C under clear skies. The unrelenting cold will test even the sturdiest winter warriors.
Tuesday’s Outlook: The Cold Marches On
Tuesday looks much the same, with sunny skies and a high of -22°C. While the sunshine may offer psychological warmth, wind chills in the morning will again approach -39°C, moderating slightly in the afternoon. Overnight lows will remain cold but may “warm” slightly to -26°C—a small consolation.
Extreme Cold Warning: Safety First!
With wind chill values near -40°C, frostbite can develop in less than 10 minutes on exposed skin. Here’s how to stay safe:
- Layer Up: Wear multiple layers of warm clothing, with a wind-resistant outer shell. Mittens, hats, and scarves are non-negotiable.
- Cover Exposed Skin: Frostbite is a real risk, especially for fingers, toes, ears, and noses.
- Stay Indoors: If you don’t absolutely need to go outside, don’t. Remember: if it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for your pets.
- Check on Others: Keep an eye on vulnerable family members, neighbors, and friends, especially the elderly or those with health conditions.
Road Conditions: Caution Advised
Travelers in and around Thunder Bay should be prepared for icy roads and reduced traction. Highway 11/17 and other major routes remain open but are icy and snow-packed in places. Vehicles should be equipped with winter tires, emergency kits, and extra warm clothing. Black ice may also form, so slow down and drive cautiously.
What to Wear Today
Today’s dress code? Think “human burrito.” Insulated jackets, thermal layers, windproof mittens, hats that cover your ears, and thick scarves are all essential. If you’re heading outside, consider using hand warmers or foot warmers to fend off the chill.
Fun Weather Trivia
Did you know that Thunder Bay’s wind chill record is one of the coldest in Ontario? On February 2, 1996, wind chills dropped to an incredible -58°C, showcasing just how fierce the region’s winters can be. Let’s hope today doesn’t come close to breaking that record!
