So you’ve just found out that you are moving to Thunder Bay, and your friends and family are telling you that you are going to HATE it? I’ll be honest, while there are ALOT of amazing things about Thunder Bay, just like any City, there really are things that you aren’t going to love about it.
In this blog post, I am going to talk about the 5 things that you aren’t going to love about your move to Thunder Bay.
You will definitely want to read to the very end, which is when I will address the great big elephant in the room
If you’ve googled Thunder Bay, I’m sure you know the one I’m talking about.
So without further delay, if you are moving to Thunder Bay, here are 5 things that you might not be crazy about once you get here!
Dislike #1: Long Winters
The first thing is winter. Winters are very long, very cold, and we get a lot of snow. January is the coldest month, with temperatures averaging between -13- 16C. While this may not seem too cold, keep in mind that the windchill cools things further. In December, January, and February there are days where with the windchill the temperature is well into the -30sC
Dislike #2: Winter Highway Maintenance
Along with the cold temperatures and heavy snowfall comes terrible winter driving conditions. Highway maintenance in Northwestern Ontario in the winter is pretty poor. You will likely want to avoid too much highway travel during the winter season.
Dislike #3: Black Fly and Mosquito Season
From a seasonal perspective, once winter finally breaks, May is usually quite nice. But then, black fly and mosquito season set in. If you love the outdoors, the bugs will drive you crazy. A little known fact is that citronella based bug spray was actually invented in Nipigon by William McKirdy. It was then manufactured at a plant in Fort William, which is the South side of of the City by McKirdy’s son. One thing that I will say, is that the bugs aren’t nearly as bad in the City as they are in the Country.
Dislike #4: Railway Lines
Another thing that can really drive you crazy is the railways. The City is intersected in many places by railway lines that run diagonally through the South end of Thunder Bay as well as the Intercity area.
On a positive note, if you are ever running late for work, just say that you were held up by a train!
Dislike #5: Labels
Alright, it’s time to address the elephant in the room. If you’ve googled Thunder Bay at all, I’m sure you’ve come across phrases such as ‘murder capital of Canada’, and articles referring to our high rates of drug addicition, mental health issues, as well as crime rates, gang activity, and homelessness. Much like any City, there are definitely areas that I don’t frequent at night or early in the morning. The Ontario government just a few days ago announced that it is investing over $3.8 million through the new Addictions Recovery Fund .The purpose is to immediately enhance access to addictions treatment supports in Thunder Bay.
The City of Thunder Bay has implemented a 5 pronged approach to improve the health, safety and well-being of all citizens by working together to reduce substance related harms.
I am hopeful that through programs such as these, we really ARE building a better tomorrow for our Community. I truly believe that the good in our Community is making a difference not just for tomorrow, but today.
If you live in Thunder Bay, I would be very interested in hearing your thoughts on this topic- leave a comment below sharing your insights on what it’s like to live in here, both the good, and the bad.
If you found this topic interesting, you might be interested in my next Video that outlines my Top 5 Best places to live in Thunder Bay. And, if you are joining me for this video, definitely check out Moving to Thunder Bay? 10 Things you’ll Love about it! Thunder Bay has an abundance of amazingness that you really need to check out!
If you are moving to Thunder Bay, and have questions, definitely reach out, I’m more than happy to chat!
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