The city may feel more like a sauna over the next few days as cool spring-like temperatures give way to a wave of heat and humidity.
The City of Toronto issued a heat alert as the mercury soared to 32 C Sunday afternoon, feeling more like 40 C with the humidity, according to Environment Canada.
During the heat alert residents are advised to drink plenty of fluids and check in on friends, neighbours and family members who are at risk from heat-related illnesses, such as the elderly or those with medical conditions.
“This was kind of expected because all of the ingredients are there for a heat alert to be issued. Over the next few days we are going to be topping 30 C and humidex values are going to reach well into the high 30s and maybe even 40 C in some regions,” CP24 weather specialist Jamie Gutfreund said Sunday morning. “It is going to be hot, hot, hot and if you do have shortness of breath, maybe Asthma or any other respiratory illnesses, you probably want to take it easy. Reduce any strenuous activities, stay cool and stay hydrated.”
Humidex advisory also in effect
On top of the heat alert, Environment Canada has also issued a humidex advisory for a huge swath of southern Ontario, including the Greater Toronto Area.
Environment Canada warns that the region could see humidex values approaching 40 C through Wednesday
The predicted temperatures for Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday in Toronto are 32 C, 32 C and 30 C, respectively.
“Little change is forecast as the hot and humid air remains in place for a few days,” the advisory states. “This humidex advisory will likely remain in effect and may be expanded into a wider swath across southern Ontario until mid-week when a weak cold front may break the heat.”
Residents urged to take it easy
This is only the second heat alert of the year issued by the city and the first humidex advisory.
With hot temperatures still a novelty so far this summer, one official with the Ontario Safety League is urging residents to dial down their activity level and of course stay hydrated.
“A lot of people have things scheduled for the weekend and they want to get it all done, but you have to make sure you are safe,” Brian Patterson told CP24 at Woodbine Beach Sunday. “For example, gardening can take up a lot of time in the heat and it can really be difficult on your body. This might also be the first day you decide to do that really, really wrong run and you just have to monitor your body and don’t push someone running with you beyond their abilities.”
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