Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for a significant portion of Ontario, anticipating extremely high temperatures combined with high humidity starting Sunday. The warning is effective from Sunday afternoon through Tuesday, reflecting a forecast that predicts daytime highs between 31 and 36°C, with humidex values soaring into the low to mid-40s.
CityNews Meteorologist Carl Lam indicated that while temperatures will peak on Monday, the humidity will be at its highest on Sunday across the Greater Toronto Area. He noted, “The heat on Sunday will be some of the hottest air we’ve dealt with in quite some time.” In light of these extreme conditions, Environment Canada reminds residents to take proactive measures to stay safe.
Officials urge the public to identify individuals at greater risk for heat illness, such as older adults and those living alone. It is recommended to check on these vulnerable populations multiple times a day, either in person or via phone. Early signs of heat exhaustion, which may include headache, nausea, dizziness, thirst, dark urine, and intense fatigue, should be watched for. In such cases, individuals should cease activity and hydrate immediately.
In addition, Environment Canada stresses the importance of never leaving people or pets inside parked vehicles. The agency advises checking the vehicle thoroughly before locking to ensure no one is left behind. According to the seasonal forecast, this summer is expected to be hotter and more humid than usual across Ontario.
A HOT AND BUSY WEEKEND AHEAD
In Toronto, numerous festivities are planned for the weekend, including the TD Toronto Jazz Festival, the PLAY! Taiwan Music and Food Fest, and various Pride events. Meteorologist Lam emphasizes the necessity of staying hydrated and applying sunscreen, as the UV index is classified as very high during this period.
Lam also highlights that the situation may worsen as there will be little relief overnight. By Sunday night, temperatures are expected to drop only to the low to mid-20s, with the humidex remaining in the low 30s. The consistent warmth throughout the night contributes to the conditions for a heat warning, as individuals typically rely on cooler nighttime temperatures for respite from daytime heat.
On Monday, the heat intensity is forecasted to rise, with temperatures reaching the mid-30s again and humidex values creeping back into the low 40s under abundant sunshine. The forecast suggests that Tuesday will remain warm, with isolated rain showers expected in the late afternoon.
CITY OF TORONTO SWINGS INTO ACTION WITH COOL SPACES
In response to the heat alert, the City of Toronto has announced the activation of its Heat Relief Network, providing public access to over 500 cool spaces throughout the city. These spaces include libraries, community centers, and recreational pools that serve as refuge from the heat.
The city’s 58 outdoor pools will extend weekend hours from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. for public relief from the heat. In particular, eight selected pools will remain open until 11:45 p.m. during the heat warning period. These pools include:
- Alex Duff Pool, 779 Crawford St.
- Giovanni Caboto Pool, 1367 St. Clair Ave. W.
- Sunnyside Park/Gus Ryder Pool, 1755 Lake Shore Blvd. W.
- McGregor Park, 2231 Lawrence Ave. E.
- Monarch Park, 115 Felstead Ave.
- North Toronto Outdoor Pool, 200 Eglinton Ave W.
- Smithfield Park, 175 Mount Olive Dr.
- Halbert Pool, 24 Rockwood Dr. (open until 9 p.m. only)
In addition to pools, the city will operate splash pads daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. along with 15 wading pools available this weekend from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., ensuring ample opportunities for residents to escape the extreme heat.
