What to know
- Toronto faces humidex values of 44 C this week, prompting an orange heat warning.
- Residents and visitors are still planning to enjoy Canada Day, with many opting for fireworks and outdoor fun.
- Health officials urge hydration, sunscreen, and using cooling centres to prevent heat-related illnesses.
- The heat wave is expected to persist through the week, impacting city events and daily routines.
Canada Day’s coming up, and so is a heat wave. Temperatures in Toronto are expected to feel like 44 C on Wednesday, so here’s how residents and tourists alike are preparing for the heat.
According to Environment Canada, Toronto’s expecting a high of 34 on Wednesday, with a humidex of 44 and UV index of 10 or very high.
This intense heat is supposed to last through the end of the week. This can increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke, prompting the city’s orange heat warning.
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For tourist Khadim S. from Montreal, the heat isn’t the biggest deal. “My parents are from Senegal, so it’s not that much of a problem for me,” he said.
Still, he’s taking precautions to take care of himself amidst the weather.
“I’ll just be drinking water, staying hydrated, drinking electrolytes,” Khadim told Now Toronto.
“It’s a lot of heat, but at the same time, it’s better than winter,” he joked.
For Canada Day plans, he’s unsure and will see based on the weather.
Toronto resident Daphne H. said it also won’t stop her.
“It’s usually the same on my island. I’m from a French Caribbean island, so it’s the same weather,” she said.
So, Daphne is planning to watch the fireworks in Harbourfront with some friends for Canada Day.
Another Montreal tourist, Ismael T.-M., says he won’t let the weather stop the fun.
“I’m just gonna enjoy it. There’s the World Cup happening here, so I’ll just enjoy the moment,” he told Now Toronto.
His friend, Mateo G., agreed but will take precautions.
“We’ll drink a lot of water, stay under the shadows,” he said.
He’s still unsure of his Canada Day plans, saying he might go outside or to work. But, depending on how the sun is, he might go for drinks.
Health reminders
Toronto Public Health is sharing some tips for Torontonians to beat the heat:
- Use one of the 500 cooling spaces if needed.
- Stay hydrated.
- Wear sunscreen.
- Limit time outdoors during peak heat.
