Temperatures have reached record heights in Toronto.

At 2 p.m. a temperature of 32.6 C was recorded at Pearson International Airport.

That's an Environment Canada record for June 8. The previous high was 32.2 C in 1950 and 1959.

At 3 p.m. the temperature continued to soar to 33.3 C with the humidex at 42. Environment Canada is forecasting a possible increase in temperature to 34 C.

If the weather in Toronto hits 34.5 C, the city will break the record for the warmest day ever this early in the season. The temperatures hit 34.4 back on May 16 and 17, 1962.

One-day temperature records were also topped in London, Windsor and Ottawa.

Severe weather

A heat alert and humidex advisory in place are in Toronto.

Niagara and York regions, London and Windsor have issued their own heat alerts. A heat advisory is also in place in Hamilton.

There were reports of a possible tornado touching down in Minden Hills near Peterborough and north of Barrie near Muskoka.  

About 8500 people are without power between Barrie and Muskoka. Power outages, fallen trees and property damage is being reported.

Meanwhile, Environment Canada has issued thunderstorm warnings for Northern York and Durham regions.

Environment Canada is encouraging people to avoid the heat.

Sun safety urged

The humidex is a computed value that combines the temperature and humidity to reflect the perceived temperature, Environment Canada said.

When humidex values reach or exceed the 40 mark, it's important to take steps to stay cool and safe.

Values of 40 to 45 are known to cause great discomfort, so people should avoid exertion and curtail any unnecessary outdoor activity, Environment Canada said.

With such hot, humid conditions, there is a greater risk of heat and sun stroke.

With the heat alert and humidex advisory in place, here are some safety tips:

  • Stay out of the sun
  • Stay hydrated by drinking water
  • Go to an air-conditioned building such as a shopping mall or library
  • Wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing made of breathable fabrics
  • Reduce strenuous physical outdoor activity, especially between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Seniors, children and pets should never be left in a vehicle, even for a few minutes with a window down, on extremely hot days because the temperature inside a vehicle can be several degrees warmer than the air outside, Environment Canada said.

People at risk

Under its second heat alert of the season, the city is encouraging people to check on family members, friends and neighbours, especially adults and seniors who are at greater risk of suffering from heat-related illness.

Groups that are at risk include people with chronic and pre-existing illnesses, infants and young children, people on certain medications and those who are marginally housed or homeless, the city said.

Landlords of buildings without air conditioning should provide a dedicated cooling room for residents to escape the heat, the city said.

People with heart and lung conditions, seniors and children should pay special attention to air quality health index levels because high air pollution often occurs during hot weather.

Anyone who requires assistance or has heat-related questions is asked to call the Canadian Red Cross' heat information line at 416-480-2615 between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m.

Rain, cooler weather on the way

The scorching weather may be followed by several days of rainfall, starting Wednesday night with a 30 per cent chance of showers and a risk of thunderstorms.

The weather will be a bit cooler Thursday as a cold front moves in. Environment Canada is predicting a chance of showers in the morning and a daytime high of 24 C

More showers are expected Friday to Sunday in Environment Canada's long-term forecast.