The City of Toronto has been forced to intermittently close several public pools on Sunday due to dangerously hot and humid temperatures, which were intended to provide a cooling respite for residents. CityNews reported witnessing long lines at multiple city pools, with numerous individuals expressing frustration as they were turned away from accessing these facilities.
Naomi, a resident waiting to enter the Alex Duff Memorial Pool, highlighted the limited capacity of the facility, stating, “Despite being promoted as a cooling refuge from the heat by the city, Alex Duff Memorial Pool is operating at limited capacity, with only one pool open.” The restricted access has resulted in residents waiting for over an hour in the sweltering conditions.
Naomi pointed out that the delays and closures were attributed to a shortage of lifeguards on duty, attributing this to the stifling humidity. Jeff, another resident in line, mentioned that although their wait had not been excessively long, they were considering heading home. He remarked, “The line hasn’t moved very much, and people go in as people come out,” adding that the only reason some pools were still operational was that lifeguards were volunteering in these extreme temperatures.
Other individuals reporting from the scene noted that Maryvale Pool in Scarborough, Pine Point Park Outdoor Pool, and West Deane Pool were also facing closures or restrictions in access due to the high heat conditions.
In a statement posted on the city’s official website, officials explained that the intermittent closures were in line with “provincial requirements related to heat and humidex (45C+) protocols.” A spokesperson for the City of Toronto emphasized, “The City has pools staffed and ready to support people beat the heat,” further assuring that staff remain onsite to reopen pools as soon as feasible.
The spokesperson reiterated the city’s commitment to ensuring the safety of residents and staff, stating, “Ensuring the safety of residents and City staff remains a key priority. The City will continue to monitor heat levels as the day progresses, with the aim of reopening our outdoor pools as soon as possible.”
Later in the evening, the city issued a follow-up statement announcing that eight pools would remain operational until 11:45 p.m. in response to the ongoing heat warning. The pools listed were Alex Duff Memorial Pool, Fairbank Memorial Swimming Pool, Halbert Park (open until 9 p.m.), McGregor Park Community Centre, Monarch Park, North Toronto Memorial Community Centre, Smithfield Park, and Sunnyside Gus Ryder Outdoor Pool.
Environment Canada had previously issued a heat warning for the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and all of southern Ontario, forecasting that temperatures on Sunday would reach highs in the mid-30s, with humidex values soaring into the low to mid-40s. Meteorologist Carl Lam indicated that the heat is expected to peak on Monday, presenting some of the hottest air the city has faced in a considerable period.
Relief from this unrelenting heat wave is not anticipated until late Tuesday at the earliest, raising concerns for public health and the well-being of residents during this oppressive weather event.
