The Greater Toronto Area is bracing for several days of dangerous heat as Environment and Climate Change Canada places Toronto under an orange heat warning, with daytime highs forecast between 31 C and 34 C and some areas expected to reach up to 37 C through Friday, July 3. Overnight lows between 21 C and 25 C will offer little relief, raising health concerns across the region.
Heat Warning Across Toronto And Peel
Environment Canada said the hottest stretch will likely arrive Wednesday and Thursday, with humid conditions also expected to affect air quality. In Toronto, the forecast calls for a high of 33 C Tuesday, with a humidex near 43 and a risk of thunderstorms later in the day. The temperature is expected to climb to 34 C on Canada Day and 35 C on Thursday.
Peel Region is also under an orange heat warning. Mississauga officials said temperatures are expected to rise above 30 C this week, with humidex values exceeding 40 C and a risk of showers. The city said no changes are currently planned for Canada Day programming at Celebration Square, though cooling measures will be in place.
Cooling Spaces Open Across GTA
Toronto has activated more than 500 cooling spaces, including a 24-hour cooling space at 136 Spadina opening at noon on June 30. Water trailers will also be available at Nathan Phillips Square, Mel Lastman Square, East York Civic Centre and Barbara Hall Park during the warning.
In Brampton, residents are being directed to nine library branches and 27 community centres for air-conditioned relief. Spray pads are operating from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Health Risks Rise During Prolonged Heat
Public health officials are urging residents to drink water, limit outdoor activity, check on seniors, young children and people with health conditions, and seek cooler public spaces when homes become too hot. Peel Region says heat-related illness risk rises when the body struggles to cool itself during prolonged exposure.
The heat warning is expected to remain in place through Friday and could extend into the weekend, depending on changing weather conditions.
