Air quality alert issued for Toronto, GTA as forest fire smoke pushes levels to ‘high risk'
The agency says winds are carrying smoke into the area, reducing visibility and pushing the Air Quality Health Index to 10+, classified as 'very high risk,' early Monday morning. Poor air quality is expected to persist into Monday and possibly Tuesday, Environment Canada added.
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CTV News
an hour ago
- CTV News
Heat and humidity will ramp up in parts of the province Thursday
After a brief respite, the heat and humidity are making a return to southwestern Ontario. Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for parts of the province, including Brantford, Six Nations, Flamborough and all of Haldimand County, as well as Milton, Halton Hills, Niagara Falls, Hamilton, Burlington and Toronto. Daytime temperatures are expected to hit 33 degrees Celsius on Thursday, but with the humidex, it will feel closer to 44. Thursday night, the mercury will only drop to 20 to 23 degrees Celsius. There also won't be any relief from the heat on Friday. Temperatures are expected to reach 30 degrees Celsius, feeling more like 40 with the humidex. Environment Canada said the hot conditions could also continue into the weekend. 'Staying cool and hydrated is key,' advised Alexandra Pinto, CTV Kitchener's Community Weather Host. 'Turn on air conditioning, move to a cooler area of your living space and plan outdoor activities during the coolest parts of the day. Also, never want to leave pets unattended in a vehicle.' Signs of heat illness Heat illness is a serious concern when the mercury rises, especially in older adults, infants, young children, pregnant people, those with physical or mental illnesses, people with mobility issues, those who work outside and the homeless community. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include: Headache Nausea or vomiting Dizziness or fainting Extreme thirst Dark urine and decreased urination Intense fatigue Confusion or lack of coordination Skin rash Muscle cramps Heavy sweating Rapid breathing and heartbeat Heat stroke, meanwhile, is considered a medical emergency. Those symptoms include: High body temperature Very hot, red skin Confusion or change in consciousness Dizziness or fainting If someone is experiencing heat stroke, experts advise moving them to a cool place, giving them water and placing ice packs on their body. Call 911 immediately. Beating the heat The key to avoiding heat illness is to plan ahead. Here are a few things to keep in mind: Know the weather forecast before going outside Modify your plans according to the weather Drink plenty of cool liquids, especially water, even before you feel thirsty Avoid drinks that are high in sugar, caffeine or alcohol Wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing made of breathable fabric Seek shade Avoid sun exposure if you can Take breaks as needed Avoid using your oven Take a cool shower or bath Take a break by spending a few hours in a cool place Close blinds and shades, Turn on air conditioning or use a fan Cooling centres The best way to get relief from the heat and humidity is to seek out a designated cooling centre. The Region of Waterloo has locations listed on their website. They include libraries, community centres, museums and regional offices. The map also includes a list of public swimming pools and splash pads. Protecting your pets Leaving pets inside a hot vehicle, even for a few minutes, could be dangerous. Dogs can experience heatstroke, which could lead to organ failure and, ultimately, death. Signs of an overheated pet include: Excessive panting Drooling Vomiting Collapsing Lethargy Tongue can appear red or hang out of their mouth If your pet is suffering from the heat, it's a good idea to gradually cool them down. Experts suggest using a cool blanket or towel that is wet. Avoid using ice. Owners should keep pets at home when the temperature climbs but if they need to go outside, keep them off the pavement as much as possible, only go for a short walk, or take them out in the morning or evening when it's cooler.
CBC
an hour ago
- CBC
Toronto should brace for '2-day heat event,' meteorologist warns
Social Sharing Toronto is headed into a "two-day heat event" with scorching high temperatures exceeding 30 C, said Steven Flisfeder, a meteorologist with Environment and Climate Change Canada. Temperatures will hit high 20s on Wednesday which will lead into the hottest and most humid day of the week this Thursday, Flisfeder said. Thursday will see temperatures hitting the mid 30s, but with humidity Flisfeder says it will feel more like low 40s. WATCH | Why staying cool is impossible for these Toronto residents: 'Unliveable conditions': Why it's impossible to stay cool for these Toronto residents 29 days ago As the GTA's heat wave rages on, some residents have been struggling to stay cool. CBC's Dale Manucdoc speaks to Torontonians living in buildings without air conditioning and those who have no choice but to work outside. Friday will see a slight dip in temperature but still fall in the low 30s range. People hoping for a break from the intense heat and humidity might have to wait, as the federal environment agency predicts higher than average temperatures in the coming weeks. "We do expect above seasonal temperatures to continue through the latter half of the summer," Flisfeder said. People are advised to periodically cool down by seeking air-conditioned environments or get away from the sun to regulate body temperature, Flisfeder said. There is some respite over the weekend, with temperatures expected to drop down to the mid 20s on Sunday. The temperature should be back up to near 30 C on Monday, Flisfeder said. He said people should ensure they stay hydrated, especially if participating in outdoor events or strenuous activities. "Make sure you are replenishing all your bodily fluids by drinking lots of water and finding a cool place to rest," Flisfeder said.
CTV News
3 hours ago
- CTV News
Dazzling display danced in the night skies over Orillia
The northern lights dance over the City of Orillia on Tues., July 22, 2025. Residents in and around Orillia were treated to a dazzling display of the northern lights Tuesday night as the Aurora Borealis lit up the sky with a summer appearance. A local photographer captured the spectacular show of green, purple, and pink, which danced in the sky and reflected on the waters of Lake Couchiching. Environment Canada does not forecast aurora activity, but space agencies like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and Canada's Aurora Forecast often provide updates when auroras are likely. Experts say the best time to see the northern lights in Ontario are during periods of low cloud cover, minimal light pollution, and when solar storm alerts are active. The next peak viewing period for the northern lights in Canada is expected to be in the fall, according to experts.
