Toronto is in for a multi-day heat warning as Friday marks the first day of summer, with temperatures expected to climb into the mid-30s over the weekend through mid-week next week.
The heat wave, set to last from Sunday through Wednesday, will bring some of the hottest days of the year so far, just in time for the summer solstice, the longest day of sunlight, which takes place at 10:42 p.m. on Friday.
Environment Canada forecasts a high of 25 C in Toronto on Friday followed by 28 C on Saturday. From Sunday through Tuesday, temperatures are expected to climb into the 30s with the humidex to reach as high as 45 C.
In anticipation of the sweltering heat, the City of Toronto is ramping up efforts to keep residents cool and safe. From extended pool hours and splash pads to city-designed cool spaces, the city’s Heat Relief Network is in full swing.
STAYING COOL IN THE CITY
To support residents without access to air conditioning, more than 550 spaces across the city, ranging from libraries and community centres to YMCAs and shopping malls, are available as part of the city’s Heat Relief Network.
The city has also provided a map to inform residents where they can find cool spaces nearby.
Outdoor recreation is also getting a head start. This year, 15 of Toronto’s outdoor pools opened earlier than usual.
According to the city’s website, select outdoor pools are open with partial schedules. The remaining pools open with a partial schedule on June 21, and full schedules for all outdoor pools start on June 27.
Full schedules and individual locations are available online, with hours extending into September for many.
In addition to pools, splash pads are open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., and select wading pools—including those at High Park, Eglinton Park, and Kew Gardens—are also operating on weekends ahead of their full-season launch on June 27.
For those seeking a lakeside retreat, the Toronto Islands are expected to be a top destination during the heat wave.
Adding to the Island’s draw is the long-awaited reopening of The Island Café on Ward’s Island, which was destroyed in a fire last year.
The popular community cafe, housed in the historic Ward’s Island Association Clubhouse, is celebrating its grand reopening this weekend with live music and beer tastings by Great Lakes Brewery.
For a full list of Heat Relief Network locations, pool schedules, and ferry information, visit the City of Toronto’s official website.
