Miami started Monday, March 16, on the sticky side, waking up to humid, mostly cloudy skies, temperatures around 75°F and high dewpoints. A cold front is slated to sweep through tonight, boosting the odds that showers and thunderstorms will roll across the metro after sunset. Before that happens, highs will climb into the low 80s with a steady south wind gusting into the low 20s, setting up a warm, breezy day ahead of the front.
Tonight's Storm Threat
The front is expected to cross late Monday, with a line of showers and thunderstorms likely between about 8 p.m. Monday, March 16, and 2 a.m. Tuesday, March 17. A few storms could crank out damaging wind gusts and isolated quarter-size hail, and forecasters note overnight rainfall totals may reach 0.5 to 0.75 inches in spots. Officials at the National Weather Service Miami say the overall severe threat is limited but not zero, so be ready for sudden heavy downpours and gusty winds during evening commutes or any outdoor plans.
Afternoon Winds Pick Up
Through the afternoon, expect a warm and breezy setup, with highs near 83°F and a south wind around 16 mph that may gust into the low 20s. The humidity will keep things feeling extra muggy. A few spotty showers could pop up later in the day, though many neighborhoods will stay dry until the main line arrives tonight. Once the front pushes through overnight, cooler air filters in Tuesday, with highs only in the low 70s and northerly winds that will make it feel noticeably fresher.
Beaches And Boaters
Onshore winds and choppy seas are driving a high rip current risk along Atlantic beaches today, and small craft advisories are up for many local waters through Tuesday. Swim only at lifeguarded beaches and follow the beach flag system, and boaters should postpone nonessential trips and make sure loose gear is secured. For more background on the surf setup, see how rip currents put Miami Beach swimmers on alert earlier this month.
Practical tips: move or cover evening outdoor plans if you can, carry rain gear, and expect brief traffic slowdowns in heavier downpours. Check updates from the National Weather Service through the afternoon and evening, and follow local lifeguards for the latest beach safety information.
