Toronto opening eight emergency cooling centres amid heatwave
The City of Toronto is opening several emergency cooling centres as temperatures climb.
Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for Toronto ahead of daytime highs of 31°C to 34°C on Monday and Tuesday. With humidity, it will feel closer to 40°C.
Amid the heatwave, the City has opened eight cooling centres which will offer an air-conditioned place for residents to rest and receive a drink. They are located at:
- East York Civic Centre – 850 Coxwell Avenue
- Etobicoke Civic Centre – 399 The West Mall
- Metro Hall – 55 John Street
- North York Civic Centre – 5100 Yonge Street
- Scarborough Civic Centre – 150 Borough Drive
- Domenico Di Luca Community Centre – 25 Stanley Road
- Don Montgomery Community Centre – 2467 Eglinton Avenue
- Masaryk-Cowan Community Recreation Centre, 220 Cowan Avenue
While the heat warning is in effect, the Metro Hall location will be open 24 hours and all other centres will operate from 11 am until 7 pm.
“Extreme heat is associated with negative health impacts ranging from heat stress to heatstroke and death,” the City said.
“During periods of hot weather, the safety of all residents is the priority.”
COVID-19 health and safety measures, such as physical distancing and mandatory face masks, will be in effect at the centres.
In addition to the cooling centres, residents can also visit the City’s public pools, splash pads, and beaches to find relief from the heat.
People are advised to stay hydrated, take cool showers, dress for the weather, and check on older adults who live alone throughout the heatwave.
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In addition to the scorching daytime temperatures expected this week, overnight lows of 21°C to 25°C will provide “little relief from the heat,” Environment Canada said.
The heat should come to an end by Tuesday evening, as a cold front ushers in showers and thunderstorms.
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