Toronto to keep seven outdoor pools open late during ‘heat event’ that’s expected to last several days

Environment Canada issued a heat warning saying GTA temperatures could feel like the high 30s to low 40s with humidity.

Thestar.com
July 4, 2023
Marissa Birnie

A multi-day “heat event” is underway with a forecast for scorching weather in the GTA and across most of Ontario this week.

Environment Canada is also warning that the hot, humid weather conditions could lead to a deterioration of air quality across the city.

Here’s what we know about the extreme heat wave.

Toronto heat warning
Environment Canada issued a heat warning for Toronto on Monday, predicting temperatures in the high 20s to low 30s.

But with the expected humidity, the weather agency said it could feel like the high 30s to low 40s.

The hot weather will push Toronto’s air quality health index to moderate risk levels. The higher temperatures come on the heels of worsening wildfire smoke that last week saw Toronto take one of the top spots on a list of the world cities for worst air quality.

Environment Canada said people should reduce their outdoor activities if they experience air pollution symptoms like coughing or difficulty breathing.

Some experts warn that even brief exposure to smoke or air pollution could have harmful effects on the brain and body.

The weather agency warned people to be on the lookout for the effects of heat illness. Symptoms include swelling, rash, cramps and heat stroke.

The risk of developing heat exhaustion is greater among children, pregnant women, older adults, people with chronic illnesses and people working or exercising outdoors, Environment Canada said.

How to cope with extreme heat in Toronto
Experts warn that extreme heat can have serious effects on the body and even our mental health. A human bodies needs to maintain a stable core temperature of about 37 C to properly function.

Hot outdoor temperatures can make it difficult for the body to release heat by sweating, and older adults face greater risk during hot weather because their bodies are less able to regulate internal temperatures.

Extreme heat can cause death. Recent heat wave tragedies in Canada include the death of more than 500 people in B.C. in 2021 as the result of a record-breaking heat dome.

Health Canada says the best way to beat the heat is to keep cool and stay hydrated, and to plan ahead for extreme heat events when possible.

Toronto keeping outdoor pools open later
The city announced it will keep seven public pools open late -- until 11:45 p.m. Tuesday -- in response to the heat that is expected to climb even higher on Wednesday. Check the City of Toronto website, under the Explore & Enjoy / Recreation tab for outdoor swimming hours through the week.

The pools open late on Tuesday include Alex Duff Memorial, Giovanni Caboto, McGregor Park Community Centre, Monarch Park, Parkway Forest, Smithfield Park and Sunnyside Gus Ryder.

Toronto’s heat relief strategy is in effect from May 15 to September 30, including a network of 500-plus “cool spaces” across the city.

The city operates a map that lists places where people and pets can go to for heat relief, including community centres, pools and libraries.

In a tweet, the city reminded people to check on their friends, family and neighbours -- including seniors living alone -- who may be at risk in the heat.

Toronto weekly weather forecast
Tuesday is expected to reach a high of 30 C during the day, with a humidex putting temps at 38 C.

Wednesday is forecast to receive a mix of sun and cloud, with high of 31 C and a humidex of 36 C.

Temperatures are set to cool off on Thursday with a daytime high forecast to be 26C, and an expected end to the heat warning.

The weather outlook Friday through Sunday is for temperatures in the high 20s.