Toronto

Toronto's weather may be hot, but it's not a heat wave

Toronto experienced the warmest day of the year on Tuesday, with highs of almost 33 C in the city, but we're not in an official heat wave yet.

Tuesday marks the warmest day of the year in Toronto

People read as they sunbathe on a warm summer day at Cherry Beach. (Canadian Press)

Toronto experienced the warmest day of the year on Tuesday, with highs around 32.5 C in town. But the city is not in official heat wave status.

According to Environment Canada, it takes three consecutive days of temperatures at 32 C or higher. Today's high of 32.5 C tops that mark, but Monday's temperature topped out at 31.7 C at Pearson International Airport.

But Wednesday is projected to have highs of 34 C, while Thursday may see highs of 32 C — meaning a heat wave is still possible. If so, it will be the first official heat wave in two years in Toronto.

The heat record for July 28 was set in 1964, with temperatures reaching 34.4 C. If temperatures do go as high as forecasted on Wednesday, it may come close to breaking the record of 35.6 C set in July 29, 1949.