Toronto is facing an intense heat wave as Environment Canada has issued an orange heat warning for most of southern Ontario, including the city.
The agency forecasts maximum temperatures between 31 °C and 34 °C, with some areas potentially reaching 37 °C. The heat is expected to persist from Tuesday through Friday and may extend into the weekend before easing to around 25 °C on Monday.
Wednesday and Thursday are projected to be the hottest days, with highs of 34 °C to 37 °C and overnight lows remaining between 21 °C and 25 °C, offering little relief.
Elevated heat and humidity are also expected to degrade air quality, pushing the Air Quality Health Index toward the high‑risk category.
Authorities advise frequent checks on older adults, individuals living alone, and other at‑risk groups, either in person or by phone, multiple times each day.
Early signs of heat exhaustion include headache, nausea, dizziness, intense thirst, dark urine, and fatigue; those symptoms should prompt cessation of activity and immediate hydration.
Symptoms of heat stroke—such as red, hot skin, confusion, or loss of consciousness—require an emergency call to 9‑1‑1 or the local health provider without delay.
Residents are encouraged to drink water regularly before feeling thirsty, keep blinds closed, and use air‑conditioning, fans, or cooler indoor spaces whenever possible.
Those in overheated homes should seek cooler public locations such as cooling centres, community centres, libraries, or shaded parks.
The city has opened more than 500 cooling spaces, including a 24‑hour facility at 136 Spadina, to provide relief during the heat warning.
Mobile water stations and fountains have been deployed at several squares and civic centres, offering free hydration throughout the day.
Additional support includes activation of 247 park washrooms, over 700 water fountains, and outreach teams distributing water across the city.
Civic centres in Scarborough, Etobicoke, East York, York, Metro Hall, and North York are operating extended hours, remaining open until 9:30 p.m. to accommodate those seeking cooling.
On Canada Day, most community centres will stay closed, but two locations will remain open solely for cooling access.
Eight outdoor pools, including those at Christie Pits Park and Earlscourt Park, will stay open beyond their usual closing times to provide additional relief.
