Heat Warning in Effect: Hot, Humid and Hazardous
If you’re heading from the breezy wilds of Northwestern Ontario to the bustling core of Toronto today, brace yourself for a wall of heat — the GTA is in full-on summer sizzle mode. A Heat Warning is in effect for Toronto, and it’s no exaggeration: the city is currently sitting at a steamy 28.8°C, with a humidex of 37, and the mercury is still climbing.
The temperature is expected to top out at 33°C this afternoon, but the humidex will make it feel more like 42 — the kind of heat that sends pavement shimmering and turns park benches into hot plates. The UV index is an eye-searing 10, so sunscreen isn’t optional today — it’s survival gear.
Winds are coming in from the west at 18 km/h and will pick up slightly to 20 km/h this afternoon. The pressure stands at 101.9 kPa and rising, offering no relief from the heat. Humidity is high at 64%, so it’s the full sauna experience today in Toronto. There’s also a 40% chance of showers and even a risk of a thunderstorm this afternoon, which could bring brief relief — or just turn the city into a steamy, stormy sauna.
Tonight and Tomorrow: Sticky Nights and a Slight Dip
Tonight remains muggy, with a low of 20°C and partly cloudy skies. There’s still a 40% chance of showers early this evening, possibly with thunder. Winds will ease off to light from the northwest later on, but not enough to shake off the sweat.
Wednesday offers a slight break — emphasis on slight. After a mix of sun and cloud early in the morning, skies clear by midday. The high will reach 28°C, with a humidex of 33, and another UV index of 10, so hats and hydration remain essential. Wednesday night will stay cloudy, with a 30% chance of showers and a low of 19°C.
Thursday and Friday: Cloud Cover and Chances of Rain
On Thursday, the high drops to a more manageable 22°C, but showers move in with a 60% chance of rain through the day and into the night (low of 17°C). Friday follows suit with cloudy skies and another 60% chance of rain, along with a high of 24°C. While temperatures are cooler, it may be soggy underfoot.
What to Wear: Think Sahara Meets Sidewalk
Today calls for light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing, breathable fabrics, and wide-brimmed hats. Don’t forget UV-protective sunglasses and water bottles everywhere you go. Avoid dark colours — unless you’re aiming to cook yourself like a sidewalk sausage. For indoor dwellers, draw the blinds and crank the fans or air conditioning. If you’re outside, plan to be in the shade or near water, and never leave kids or pets in vehicles — not even for a second.
Weather Records & Public Safety Tip
Toronto’s record high for June 24th is 35.2°C, set in 1943 — and we’re pushing the edge of that today. With heat warnings issued by Environment Canada, it’s vital to check on vulnerable individuals, drink water before you feel thirsty, and know the signs of heat-related illness. Safety first, sunburns later.
Did you know? Toronto’s downtown core can be up to 5°C hotter than surrounding areas during heat waves — a phenomenon known as the urban heat island effect, thanks to all that concrete, glass, and traffic heat.
