How Mississauga is dealing with the heat at Canada Day events

More than 50,000 people are expected at the annual Canada Day party in Mississauga as extreme heat blankets the region.

Much of southern Ontario is under an intense and prolonged heat wave this week, according to Environment and Climate Change Canada. A heat warning is in effect from Tuesday to Friday, possibly continuing on the weekend in Mississauga.

On Canada Day, temperatures are expected to hit a high of 34 C, with the humidex, it could feel like 44 C.

Mississauga’s Canada Day events are expected to go ahead as planned at Celebration Square in the city’s downtown core, Irene McCutcheon, senior communications advisor for the City of Mississauga, told INsauga.com.

“The City is monitoring weather conditions closely and has measures in place to support attendee comfort and safety, including access to indoor cooling spaces and water stations on site,” McCutcheon said.

The big party includes live entertainment from Canadian talent, family-friendly events, more than 25 food trucks and food market vendors, interactive soccer-inspired experiences and a “spectacular fireworks finale” in Celebration Square, the city said.

Events start at 4 p.m. and continue until around 10:30 p.m. after the last fireworks have been set off into the night sky. Admission is free.

In Port Credit, a Canada Day parade is planned at 11 a.m., followed by a street festival from noon to 11 p.m. Events in Streetsville and Malton are also planned.

But with the heat warning, the city suggests people take precautions.

“We encourage all visitors to come prepared for the heat by wearing lightweight clothing, applying sunscreen, bringing a hat, staying hydrated, and taking breaks from the sun as needed,” McCutcheon said. “Attendees are also encouraged to make use of the available shaded areas and cooling spaces throughout the day.”

When extreme hot temperatures are forecasted for the GTA, the City of Mississauga offers residents places to stay cool. This includes indoor swimming pools, outdoor swimming pools, air-conditioned libraries, spray pads and community centres. Learn more here.

McCutcheon said the city will continue to monitor forecasts leading up to and during the event and will communicate any significant updates if required.

The city provided advice for the heat wave:

• Stay hydrated, drink water throughout the day.
• Cool off indoors, visit air-conditioned spaces like local libraries, community centres or malls.
• Limit time outdoors, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Wear lightweight, light-coloured clothing, a hat and sunscreen.
• Cool down at pools, spray pads or shaded areas.
• Never leave children or pets in a parked vehicle.
• Check in on neighbours, friends and family, especially those more vulnerable.

With files from Declan Finucane