GUEST: Star climate change reporter Kate Allen

Toronto just sweltered its way through one of the most intense heatwaves on record. Many Torontonians seeking relief from the heat were met with disappointment and locked doors at more than a dozen public pools as they ended up being closed because of heat safety protocols for the lifeguards. What followed was a political showdown between Mayor Olivia Chow and Premier Doug Ford, with both sides pointing fingers over who was responsible. 

And amid the public backlash, Mayor Chow has introduced a new motion calling for more resources and look to bringing back 24/7 cooling centred that were cancelled in 2019. 

As extreme heat becomes our new normal, is the city prepared to provide equitable access to cooling for all its residents? 

Produced by Saba Eitizaz and Paulo Marques