Stratford is opening cooling centres this week as a heat wave brings dangerously high temperatures to the city. Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for the area, and the city is urging residents to take precautions.
Cooling centres are now available at the Stratford Rotary Complex at 353 McCarthy Road West, the Stratford Public Library at 19 St. Andrew Street, and the Anne Hathaway Park splash pad near Downie and Bruce Streets. The Rotary Complex is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. as a place to cool off.
Daytime highs are expected to reach the mid-30s, with humidex values making it feel like the 40s. The heat is forecast to continue through at least July 3, and overnight lows will only dip to the low 20s, offering little relief.
Huron Perth Public Health warns that some people face higher health risks from the extreme heat, including older adults, babies and young children, people with ongoing health issues, those without housing, and people with low income. Residents are encouraged to check on neighbours who may be vulnerable.
This is at least the third time in recent years that Stratford has opened cooling centres during a heat wave, following similar steps in July 2025 and September 2023. As an added way to cool off, free swims are being offered at the Stratford Lions Pool on Canada Day from 2:30 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 8:30 p.m., and again on Friday, July 3 from 7 to 8:30 p.m.
