Northwestern Ontario faces frigid conditions from January 19-22, 2025, with extreme cold, frostbite risks, and snow squalls affecting many communities.
Northwestern Ontario is embracing winter’s full force, with biting cold, occasional snow, and brisk winds dominating the forecast. From Dryden to Terrace Bay, the Arctic air is here to stay for the foreseeable future.
Here’s a detailed weather outlook for January 19 through January 22, 2025, covering Dryden, Vermilion Bay, Red Lake, Ear Falls, Fort Frances, Ignace, Nipigon, Armstrong, and Terrace Bay. Prepare for frostbite risks, snow, and bone-chilling wind chills!
January 19, 2025: A Frigid Start to the Week
Dryden and Vermilion Bay
The day begins with overcast skies and a few light snow flurries in the region. Highs will reach -16°C, but the northwest wind at 20 km/h will make it feel like -27°C. Barometric pressure sits at 101.6 kPa, and humidity is at 80%. Drive carefully, as slick roads are possible. The historic high for January 19 was 3.0°C in 1981, while the record low was a chilling -41.2°C set in 1943.
Red Lake and Ear Falls
Red Lake and Ear Falls can expect a mix of clouds and occasional flurries, with highs around -18°C. Wind chills will hover near -30°C as northwest winds persist at 25 km/h. Barometric pressure remains steady at 101.4 kPa, and humidity is at 78%. Residents should limit outdoor activities, as frostbite risks are high.
Fort Frances
Fort Frances is under cloudy skies, with light snow tapering off by late morning. The high will be -15°C, but brisk northwest winds at 22 km/h will push the wind chill to -26°C. Barometric pressure is holding at 101.8 kPa, and humidity is at 82%. Frostbite can occur in 10-15 minutes, so bundle up.
Ignace
Ignace sees cloudy skies and intermittent snow flurries, with a high of -17°C. Winds are from the northwest at 20 km/h, creating a wind chill of -28°C. Barometric pressure is steady at 101.6 kPa, and humidity is at 77%. Watch out for icy roads and sidewalks.
Nipigon
In Nipigon, expect cloudy skies and light flurries throughout the day. The high will be -15°C, but northwest winds at 18 km/h will make it feel more like -25°C. Humidity is higher at 85%, and barometric pressure sits at 101.5 kPa. The roads could get slippery, so caution is advised.
Armstrong
Armstrong begins the day with light snow and a high of -18°C. Wind chills will plunge to -30°C, with northwest winds blowing at 25 km/h. Barometric pressure holds steady at 101.3 kPa, and humidity is at 79%. Travel conditions may be affected by blowing snow.
Terrace Bay
Terrace Bay experiences overcast skies with snow flurries and a high of -14°C. Winds are lighter at 15 km/h from the northwest, resulting in a wind chill of -22°C. Barometric pressure reads 101.7 kPa, with humidity at 84%. Dress warmly, as frostbite risks are still present.
January 20-22, 2025: Bitter Winds and Snow Persist
January 20: Arctic Blast Continues
Monday brings colder temperatures to Northwestern Ontario, with highs ranging from -16°C to -21°C across the region. Fort Frances, Dryden, and Vermilion Bay may see some sun breaking through the clouds, but flurries linger for Red Lake, Ear Falls, and Armstrong. Wind chills will stay between -25°C and -35°C, with northwest winds at 20-30 km/h. Frostbite warnings remain active, particularly in the morning and evening hours.
January 21: Deep Freeze Tightens
Tuesday delivers some of the coldest temperatures of the week. Terrace Bay, Armstrong, and Nipigon will see highs of just -20°C, with wind chills dropping as low as -38°C. Red Lake and Fort Frances may see brief clear skies, but the biting cold remains. Winds from the northwest at 25 km/h persist, along with the risk of frostbite in as little as 5-10 minutes.
January 22: Slight Warm-Up
Wednesday offers a glimmer of relief, with temperatures inching upward. Highs will range from -14°C in Terrace Bay to -17°C in Ignace. Winds ease slightly, coming in from the northwest at 15-20 km/h. While wind chills stay in the -20°C to -30°C range, the lower wind speeds make outdoor activities more bearable. Flurries may return to Armstrong and Red Lake by evening.
Weather Warnings
- Frostbite Alert: Frostbite risks are critical across the region for the entire period. Exposed skin can freeze in under 10 minutes, especially during morning and evening hours when temperatures are at their lowest.
- Snow Squall Warnings: Armstrong and Red Lake are under snow squall warnings on January 19 due to strong winds and blowing snow reducing visibility. Exercise caution if traveling in these areas.
- Cold Weather Health Advisory: Prolonged exposure to extreme cold can lead to hypothermia. Wear insulated layers and keep emergency supplies on hand.
Wardrobe Recommendations
This is heavy-duty winter weather, so dress accordingly! Parkas, insulated boots, thermal underwear, toques, and gloves are mandatory. If you’re venturing outdoors in areas like Armstrong or Nipigon, consider using face masks or balaclavas to protect against frostbite. Hand warmers and snow goggles are also recommended for outdoor workers.
Northwestern Weather Trivia
Did you know that Terrace Bay was once known as a bustling logging town? Its proximity to Lake Superior gives it a slightly milder winter than inland communities like Ignace or Red Lake, but don’t let that fool you—it’s still one of Northwestern Ontario’s snowiest spots!
