City issues extreme heat alert as Toronto sizzles

Toronto is feeling the heat for the third day in a row today, which is now officially the hottest day of the year.

The city reached a high of 34 C Monday, though the temperature feels closer to 40 C with the humidex.

The third day of sweltering temperatures prompted Toronto’s medical officer of health to issue an extreme heat alert Monday due to the prolonged hot temperatures in the city.

The alert means that city cooling centres will be open to the public. People can also visit malls, community centres and other public spaces to cool down.

A heat alert from Environment Canada also remains in effect for the GTA and much of southern Ontario.

People are being advised to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activities outdoors and to check on those who might be vulnerable to the heat, such as the elderly or those with respiratory issues.

Some relief from the heat could finally arrive this evening, with a 60 per cent chance of showers and a risk of a thunderstorm.

Tuesday is also expected to be hot, with a high of 30 C predicted. However there’s also a 40 per cent chance of showers Tuesday afternoon and a risk of a thunderstorm.

Temperatures are expected to level off into the rest of the week, with more seasonal highs in the low 20s forecast, along with a chance of rain Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.

Beaches, some outdoor pools open

While most outdoor city pools closed for the season Sunday, the city has extended hours at 10 pools due to the expected high temperatures.

The following pools are open today:

Swim times can be found on the city’s website: http://www.toronto.ca/swim.

City beaches and splash pads are also open daily through Sept. 20.

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