Second Heat Event to Hit Toronto and Southern Ontario Starting Monday
Toronto is facing another stretch of extreme heat this week, with daytime temperatures expected to climb into the mid-30s and humidex values possibly reaching the mid-40s.
A heat warning is in effect for Toronto starting Monday, July 13, and the City of Toronto has activated its heat relief measures.
Heat Event Expected to Last Several Days
The heat event is expected to begin Monday and continue until Wednesday or Thursday evening.
Tuesday is forecast to be the hottest day of the event, with temperatures potentially reaching around 36 C in some areas. The latest forecast for Toronto shows Tuesday near 36 C, with extreme heat posing risks for outdoor activity.
Humidex Values Could Reach 45
During the heat warning, residents across Toronto and southern Ontario could experience humidex values between 38 and 45.
Overnight temperatures are also expected to stay warm, with little relief because lows may remain above 20 C for much of the event.
Air Quality Could Worsen
Environment Canada warns that hot, humid air can also lower air quality.
During heat events, the Air Quality Health Index can approach the high-risk category, making conditions more difficult for older adults, people with health conditions and those who spend long periods outdoors.
Health Risks During Extreme Heat
Extreme heat can affect anyone, but some people face higher risks.
Residents are encouraged to check on older adults, people living alone and other vulnerable neighbours or family members several times a day.
Signs of heat illness or heat stroke can include hot red skin, dizziness, nausea, confusion and changes in consciousness.
Safety Tips for Residents
Residents should plan outdoor activities for the coolest parts of the day.
Direct sun exposure should be limited, and people are advised to wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.
Drinking water regularly and spending time in cool indoor spaces can also reduce the risk of heat-related illness.
Previous Heat Wave Sent People to Hospital
During Toronto’s first major heat wave of the summer, Toronto hospitals reported 39 heat-related emergency room visits between June 30 and July 4.
The highest number of heat-related ER visits during that stretch occurred on July 2, when 15 visits were recorded.
Toronto Activates Heat Relief Strategy
With the heat warning now in effect, the city has activated its heat relief plan.
The City of Toronto says residents can access more than 500 cooling spaces across the city, including a 24-hour cooling space at 136 Spadina Road.
Mobile Water Trailers Available
Starting Monday, Toronto Water trailers will be available during the heat warning at:
- Nathan Phillips Square
- Mel Lastman Square
- East York Civic Centre
- Barbara Hall Park
These trailers provide water fountains and bottle-filling stations for residents trying to stay hydrated.
Extended Hours at Civic Centres
Several civic centres will operate on extended hours during the heat warning.
The city says Scarborough, Etobicoke, East York, York and Metro Hall civic centres will be open from 8 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
North York Civic Centre will operate from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. during the warning.
Splash Pads, Pools and Water Play
Residents can also cool off at city pools, splash pads and water play areas.
The city’s swim and water play map provides updated information on schedules, closures and service alerts for drop-in swimming and water activities.
More than 170 splash pads are expected to operate daily, and outdoor pools will provide another option for relief during the heat event.
Outdoor Pools With Extended Hours
The city says several outdoor pools will operate on extended hours during the warning, including:
- Alex Duff Pool, 779 Crawford St.
- Giovanni Caboto Pool, 1367 St. Clair Ave. W.
- Heron Park Pool, 292 Manse Rd.
- McGregor Park Pool, 2231 Lawrence Ave. E.
- Monarch Park Pool, 115 Felstead Ave.
- North Toronto Memorial, 200 Eglinton Ave.
- Smithfield Park Pool, 175 Mount Olive Dr.
- Sunnyside Gus Ryder Pool, 1755 Lake Shore Blvd. W.
Toronto’s latest heat warning is expected to bring dangerous humidity, high daytime temperatures and warm nights with limited relief.
With humidex values possibly reaching 45, residents are being urged to stay hydrated, reduce outdoor activity and check on vulnerable people.
The city’s heat relief strategy, including cooling spaces, water trailers, civic centres, splash pads and pools, offers several ways for people to escape the heat safely.
