Heat warning for Toronto extended through Saturday: Environment Canada

High of 33 C possible Saturday, plus risk of thunderstorms, gusts, hail Friday afternoon, evening

The heat wave that's enveloped Toronto this week will continue into the weekend, with Environment Canada extending its orange-level warning of high temperatures into Saturday.

Maximum temperatures are expected to reach 31 to 33 C Saturday, with a low of 21 C, the federal weather agency said Friday. Earlier this week, temperatures were expected to drop below 30 C by the weekend.

Heat warnings are issued when daytime highs hit 31 C and overnight lows stay at 20 C or above, or when the humidex reaches 40 for at least two days.

Temperatures peaked this week on Wednesday and Thursday, with weather-related power outages reported in the city on Canada Day.

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The warning comes as a heat dome has hovered over much of North America.

The city of Toronto is continuing with its heat relief strategy through the heat warning, according to a city bulletin issued Friday. That includes extended pool hours and opening cooling spaces.

Risk of thunderstorms, large hail

Toronto is also facing a yellow-level warning for risks of severe thunderstorms, gusts up to 100 km/h and hail the size of ping pong balls Friday afternoon and evening, Environment Canada says.

Heavy rains could exceed 30 milimetres, while local power outages are possible, the warning says.

Environment Canada issues yellow warnings when "hazardous weather may cause damage, disruption or health impacts," while orange warnings are issued when "severe weather is likely to cause significant damage, disruption, or health impacts."

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