Toronto chokes under smoke and scorching heat as air quality plummets to among worst globally

July 14, 2025

RED FM News Desk

Toronto, ON – Toronto is facing a dangerous combination of sweltering heat and thick wildfire smoke, as Environment Canada warns of deteriorating air quality and a prolonged heat wave across southern Ontario.

Late Sunday, the national weather agency issued an air quality advisory for the city, warning that smoke drifting in from forest fires in northern Ontario is causing conditions to “deteriorate significantly.” As of Monday morning, Toronto had the second-worst air quality ranking in the world, according to real-time data from Swiss air monitoring service IQAir.

Temperatures are expected to hit 31°C on Monday but will feel closer to 40°C due to high humidity levels. A heat warning remains in effect and is likely to persist until at least Thursday night, when a shift in weather patterns is expected to bring relief.

“Southern Ontario will experience hot and humid conditions now through much of this week,” Environment Canada stated in its advisory. Humidex values between 35 and 40 are forecasted throughout the region, with overnight lows ranging from 19°C to 23°C — offering little respite from the oppressive heat.

The combination of wildfire smoke and high humidity poses a serious risk to public health, particularly for vulnerable groups such as seniors, infants, pregnant individuals, and those with pre-existing health conditions. Outdoor workers and people participating in sports or other outdoor activities are also at higher risk.

“During heavy smoke conditions, everyone’s health is at risk regardless of their age or health status,” the advisory warned. “Limit time outdoors. Reschedule or cancel outdoor sports, activities and events.”

Environment Canada is urging residents to take precautions, including checking on elderly family members and neighbours, staying hydrated, avoiding strenuous activities outdoors, and seeking medical attention if symptoms of smoke inhalation or heat-related illness occur.

Tuesday is expected to bring more of the same, with a high of 32°C and humidex levels making it feel like 37°C. The agency emphasized that “extreme heat can affect everyone’s health” and stressed the importance of staying informed and prepared.

As climate-related events intensify across the country, public health officials are reminding Canadians that extreme heat and wildfire smoke are not isolated threats — they are compounding risks that demand proactive measures and community vigilance.