Environment & Climate Change Canada issues Heat Warnings across Canada. A Heat Warning is issued for southern Ontario (including Toronto) when there is a forecast of two or more consecutive days with daytime maximum temperatures of 31°C or warmer, together with nighttime minimum temperatures of 20°C or warmer or when there is a forecast of two or more consecutive days with humidex values expected to reach 40 or higher.

Be Notified of Heat Warnings

Check Environment & Climate Change Canada website for information on your local forecast and weather alerts or download their mobile app, WeatherCAN, which provides weather alert notifications in your area, as well as in your saved locations.

Heat Relief Strategy

The City of Toronto’s Heat Relief Strategy is a protocol for hot weather response that aims to reduce the incidence of heat-related illness and death in Toronto due to extreme heat. The main focus of the strategy is to provide education and services to vulnerable groups at increased risk for heat-related illnesses. Read the 2023 Heat Relief Strategy.

Heat Relief Network

Toronto’s Heat Relief Network maximizes the use of existing air-conditioned and other cool spaces on hot days. The City’s Heat Relief Network features cool spaces that are open throughout the summer, including on days when Heat Warnings are issued by Environment and Climate Change Canada. The Heat Relief Network includes libraries, community centres, shelters, drop-ins, 24-hour respite sites, and several private and non-profit organizations including some senior centres, shopping malls and YMCA locations.

The City’s Streets to Homes outreach team does wellness checks for clients who live outdoors, and can support in determining the closest cool space.