After enduring a seven-day heat wave, Toronto is set to experience a significant drop in temperatures, returning to seasonal levels by Thursday evening. The city's residents have been coping with soaring temperatures and discomfort, especially during the recent days when humidity levels surged, making conditions feel even warmer.

This weather pattern follows a period of concern regarding air quality in Toronto. On Monday, the situation escalated as the city’s Air Quality Health Index hit a very high risk rating of over 10, largely due to smoky air resulting from wildfire activity. This prompted many local camps and daycares to implement last-minute changes to their programs to ensure the health and safety of participants amid the adverse air quality conditions.

As the week progressed, by Wednesday, there was a noticeable improvement in air quality, with the index rating dropping to a "moderate to high risk" value of 7. This trend is expected to continue, with predictions indicating a further decrease in the air quality index to a level of 3 by Thursday, as a cold front is set to enter the area, bringing relief from the heat.

The first half of Thursday is forecasted to still see humidex values climbing up to 39, creating sticky and muggy conditions for residents. However, as the day unfolds, temperatures are anticipated to cool down to a more reasonable 23°C by the evening. By Friday morning, a further dip in temperatures to 15°C is expected, promising cooler and more comfortable conditions for the weekend.

Looking ahead, the forecast suggests that Toronto will enjoy seasonal temperatures during the weekend, with highs of 27°C on Saturday and slightly warmer at 28°C on Sunday. This return to normal weather patterns will likely be a welcome change for residents who have had to deal with the heat and the effects of poor air quality in recent days.

However, the weather outlook indicates potential for yet another heat wave to sweep across Toronto, with the next one anticipated to begin on Wednesday, July 23. Residents are advised to stay updated on weather forecasts and to remain vigilant, particularly given the recent strain on air quality and health from the preceding heat wave and wildfire smoke.