Toronto Grapples with Wildfire Smoke and Scorching Heat

As of July 31st, 2025, the city of Toronto has been grappling with a combination of extreme weather conditions that have tested the resilience of its residents. After emerging from a prolonged heat warning earlier this week, the city now finds itself under an air quality advisory due to smoke from wildfires raging in the Prairies.

The smoke has caused poor air quality and reduced visibility across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), with the Air Quality Health Index reaching a high-risk level of 7 on Wednesday night. Environment Canada has urged those at risk, including children and the elderly, to limit or reschedule strenuous outdoor activities, while the general population should do so if they experience symptoms like coughing or throat irritation.

Fortunately, the weather agency has forecasted that air quality is expected to improve from north to south through the day on Thursday, with the index dipping to a more moderate 6 and further improving to a 4 by Thursday night. The city can also look forward to cooler temperatures, with a high of 23°C expected on Thursday, a significant drop from the recent highs in the low 30s that felt as hot as 38°C with the humidity.

As Toronto weathers this dual challenge, residents are encouraged to stay hydrated, limit direct sun exposure, and utilize the city's network of community centers, pools, and libraries as cooling centers. With the weather expected to improve in the coming days, Torontonians can hope for a respite from the heat and smoke that has gripped the city.