Heat warning continues in Toronto Friday as temperatures could feel like 40 C

Toronto and parts of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) will continue to see scorching heat on Friday, with Environment Canada warning that temperatures could feel like 40 C. 

The region remains under a heat warning that began on Thursday and may continue into the weekend. 

Daytime temperatures on Friday are expected to reach near 30 C, with peak humidex values near 40. Nighttime lows are expected near 21 C, which Environment Canada said will provide little relief from the heat. 

"Cooler temperatures are expected on Saturday, offering some relief from the heat before temperatures possibly rise again on Sunday," the federal weather agency said in a statement Friday morning. 

The heat warning is also in effect for Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Markham, Mississauga, Brampton, Halton Hills, Milton and Oakville.

The government agency also issued a thunderstorm watch for Toronto and some surrounding communities for Thursday evening, but that has since been lifted. 

Residents cope with the heat

Chris Brown, a construction worker in Toronto, said he had been working outside at a downtown site since 7 a.m. and noticed the heat escalating with every hour Thursday. 

"We're kind of used to working in the heat and for our particular job, we need to wear long sleeves, so that kind of sucks but you get used to it," Brown said.

"Just take lots of breaks and water."

WATCH | Some Torontonians struggled to stay cool during last month's heat wave:

'Unliveable conditions': Why it's impossible to stay cool for these Toronto residents

1 month ago

Duration 1:56

As the GTA’s heat wave rages on, some residents have been struggling to stay cool. CBC’s Dale Manucdoc speaks to Torontonians living in buildings without air conditioning and those who have no choice but to work outside.

It's not the first heat warning for Ontario this summer — extreme heat reaching the mid-30s broke temperature records in many parts of the province last month.

"It has been a bit of a scorcher of a summer so I feel like spring held on for the longest time and summer kind of came on strong," said Liam Abanid.

Abanid said he had been walking in Toronto's St. James Park with friends, but after about 20 minutes he was feeling the heat and planning to head inside.

Check in on those at risk of heat illness

Environment Canada is advising people to limit exposure to sun and heat by planning activities during the coolest parts of the day, as well as wearing a wide-brimmed hat and lightweight, light-coloured, loose fitting clothing.

People are advised to watch for symptoms of heat stroke, which is a medical emergency, in themselves and others. Symptoms can include red and hot skin, dizziness, nausea, confusion and change in consciousness. 

"While you wait for medical attention, try to cool the person by moving them to a cool place, removing extra clothing, applying cold water or ice packs around the body," Environment Canada said in Tuesday's warning. 

The weather agency also advised people to drink water often, even before feeling thirsty, and close blinds and open windows if the outside is cooler than inside. 

"If your living space is hot, move to a cool public space such as a cooling centre, community centre, library or shaded park," the heat warning says. 

People are also advised to check in regularly on those at greater risk of heat illness, including the elderly and those living alone. 

Signs of heat exhaustion may include headache, nausea, dizziness, thirst, dark urine and intense fatigue. If you experience these symptoms, Environment Canada advises stopping your activity and drinking water.