A Wet and Windy Weekend Ahead
THUNDER BAY – WEATHER – As of 7:00 AM today, there are no weather warnings or advisories in effect. However that is not likely to remain that way. There are advisories and warnings surrounding the city. Nipigon is under a Freezing Rain Warning. Kenora and Dryden are under Weather Advisories calling for a significant winter storm.
Heading out on the area highways is likely to result in seeing the weather impact over the next two days.
Overall Thunder Bay is in for an active weather pattern over the next few days, with rain, gusty winds, and even some snow making an appearance. While today will stay relatively mild with showers and the possibility of thunderstorms, expect colder temperatures and wintry conditions to return by late Saturday night.
Current Conditions: A Chilly and Breezy Start
As of 6:00 AM EDT, Thunder Bay sits at 1.6°C under partly cloudy skies. The humidity is high at 87%, making the air feel damp. Winds are blowing from the ENE at 28 km/h, gusting to 40 km/h, and the barometric pressure is falling at 100.5 kPa, indicating a change in the weather. Visibility remains good at 24 km, but that could decrease as precipitation moves in.
Today: Mild with Showers and a Chance of Thunderstorms
The day will be mainly cloudy with a 60% chance of showers, and there’s a risk of thunderstorms by late afternoon. Winds will shift to the east at 20 km/h later this morning, and the temperature will climb to a mild 8°C. The UV index will be moderate at 3, so even with cloud cover, there’s still some sunlight filtering through.
Tonight will remain cloudy with a 60% chance of showers and a risk of thunderstorms early in the evening. The northeast wind will stay steady at 20 km/h, with a low of 5°C.
Saturday: Wet and Windy with a Temperature Drop
Saturday will bring periods of rain, and there’s a chance of thunderstorms in the morning. Winds will be light early on but will shift northwest at 30 km/h, gusting to 50 km/h by the afternoon. The high will reach 9°C, but colder air will push in by evening.
Saturday night will see rain transitioning to snow, and with strong winds, blowing snow may reduce visibility. Temperatures will plunge to -8°C, marking a sharp contrast from the daytime mildness.
Sunday and Beyond: A Return to Winter
Sunday will be a mix of sun and cloud with a 30% chance of flurries, and a high of -1°C. The night will be clear but frigid, dropping to -16°C.
Monday will be similar, with a 30% chance of flurries and a high of 1°C. The night will see cloudy periods and a low of -10°C.
Hazards: Rain, Strong Winds, and Slippery Conditions Ahead
- Rain could be heavy at times, increasing the risk of slippery roads and pooling water.
- Wind gusts up to 50 km/h by late Saturday may cause blowing snow and reduced visibility as temperatures drop.
- The rain-to-snow transition on Saturday night could make for icy and hazardous conditions by Sunday morning.
Wardrobe Advice: From Rain Gear to Winter Gear in 24 Hours
- Today and Saturday: Waterproof jackets and shoes will be useful in the rain. With temperatures in the high single digits, a light sweater or hoodie should be comfortable.
- Saturday Night & Sunday: Bring out the winter coats, hats, and gloves, as the temperature drop will bring wind chills and possibly slippery conditions.
Fun Weather Fact: Thunderstorms in March? Yep, It’s Possible!
Did you know that spring thunderstorms are common when warm and cold air masses collide? This weekend’s system is a great example—mild temperatures, rain, and even a thunderstorm, all before shifting back to snow and cold!
Stay prepared, Thunder Bay—this weekend will be a rollercoaster ride of weather changes!
