Environment Canada has issued a special air quality declaration for Toronto and the rest of the GTA, as hot and humid weather conditions create increased levels of pollution.
In a statement issued late Tuesday, the agency said “high levels of air pollution have developed”.
“Hot and sunny conditions have led to an increase in ground-level ozone concentrations,” the statement said.
The agency said high-risk air quality health index values are expected to be maintained for one to two hours and that higher levels of pollution could be maintained locally tonight.
The statement, which concludes the first official day of the summer, is in force for Toronto, York, Durham, Peel, Halton, Hamilton, Niagara and other areas.
“Individuals may experience symptoms such as a cough, sore throat, headache or shortness of breath,” said Environment Canada. “Children, the elderly and those with cardiovascular or lung diseases, such as asthma, are at particular risk.”
The region is already under heat warning due to two days of intense heat.
Toronto broke a 10-year temperature record on Tuesday, reaching 35.3 C in Toronto Pearson, beating the previous June 21 record of 34.4 C set in 2012.
Wednesday is expected to be another stifling day, with an expected maximum temperature of 31 degrees Celsius, although it will feel closer to 39 degrees with humidity. A UV index of 11 or “extreme” is also expected.
People are reminded never to leave pets or people in parked vehicles, to stay hydrated and to avoid strenuous outdoor work during the hottest parts of the day if possible.
The temperature is expected to drop slightly on Thursday, although it will still be hot with an expected maximum temperature of 28.
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