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5 Things to Know Today (Oct. 1): Minimum Wage Hike, Cooler U.S. Inflation, Oil Below $100

  Thursday October 1, 2026 A new quarter, a higher minimum wage in Ontario and a softer inflation read south of the border. Here are the five things that matter to your wallet today. 1 Ontario's minimum wage rises to $17.95 today Ontario's general minimum wage climbs 35 cents, from $17.60 to $17.95 an hour, as of October 1 — a roughly 2% bump tied to Ontario's CPI. The student rate goes to $16.90 (from $16.60) and the homeworker rate to $19.70. A full-time worker at 40 hours a week earns about $718 a week before deductions. Federally regulated workers already have an $18.15 floor, which has applied since April 1. What it means for you: If you pay anyone by the hour — a cleaner, a part-time helper, a seasonal worker — hours worked from today forward must be paid at no less than $17.95, even if the pay period started in September. Workers should check their next paycheque. 2 Cooler U.S. inflation eases the pressure on rate hikes The Fed's preferred inflation gauge came i...

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Heat Wave Sweeps Ontario and Quebec: Record-Breaking Temperatures and Health Risks

 


As the mercury soars into the 30s across Ontario and Quebec this week, residents are bracing for an extended period of extreme heat and humidity. Humidex levels are stretching into the 40s, posing health risks for everyone. Here’s what you need to know:

  1. Health Impacts: Extreme heat can lead to heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Stay hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor activities, and be vigilant about heat-related symptoms.

  2. Record-Breaking Heat: A strong ridge of high pressure over the eastern U.S. and the Great Lakes is driving this heat wave. Hot, muggy winds from the Gulf of Mexico add tropical humidity. Humidex values could reach the mid-40s in Greater Toronto, Hamilton, Ottawa, and Montreal, challenging records set during the 2018 heat wave.

  3. Air Quality Concerns: The stagnant, humid air mass may deteriorate air quality. Scattered thunderstorms could provide temporary relief, but overall, we’re in for sweltering days and sticky nights.

Remember to take precautions, stay informed about weather alerts, and prioritize your well-being during this intense heat wave. 

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