FIFA World Cup watch parties cancelled due to extreme heat in Toronto

Toronto’s FIFA World Cup watch parties have been cancelled due to extreme heat on Thursday.

An orange-level heat warning remains in effect across southern Ontario. A high of 35 C and a humidex of 44 C is forecast today in the Greater Toronto Area, according to Environment and Climate Change Canada.

The City of Toronto has cancelled all broadcasts of the matches in Nathan Phillips Square on Thursday.

“We understand that this is disappointing for many, but the decision was made due to the extreme heat forecast and the demand on resources to ensure the safety of all,” the city said on X.

The extreme heat forecast and the resources required to safely manage large crowds at fan marches, Toronto Stadium and FIFA Fan Festival Toronto, are behind the decision today, the city said in a press release.

Today’s matches, including Spain versus Austria at 3 p.m., and Portugal versus Croatia at 7 p.m. in Toronto Stadium, can be viewed at other venues across Toronto, the city suggested.