Miami wakes up under mostly cloudy, muggy skies this morning, with temperatures stuck near 81 degrees and easterly winds beginning to crank up. Highs are expected to top out near 85, with just a slight chance of scattered showers or a stray thunderstorm from late morning into the afternoon, mainly over inland spots. Out at the shoreline, though, beach conditions will be rough and swimming is expected to be hazardous through Monday evening.
At The Beaches
From Sunday morning, May 17, through Monday evening, May 18, the Atlantic coast, including coastal Broward and coastal Miami-Dade, is under a High Rip Current Risk, according to the National Weather Service. Forecasters are keeping the safety advice simple: swim near lifeguards, pay attention to the flags, and if you get caught in a rip current, relax and float or swim parallel to the shore instead of trying to fight the pull.
Afternoon Storms
Storms will be spotty and tied to seabreeze collisions. There is a slight chance of activity by late morning, with scattered downpours more likely around midday and into the early afternoon. Any slow-moving cells could dump brief heavy rain and kick up gusty winds, cutting visibility and causing short term street ponding. For a bit of backstory on how this pattern set up, see rip currents and soupy heat for yesterday's forecast context.
Winds And Heat
East winds will generally run around 10 mph, with gusts near 18, keeping the air feeling sticky. Overnight lows will hold near 81, and inland neighborhoods may see heat index values push into the upper 90s. It is a day to carry water, take breaks in the shade, and ease up on strenuous outdoor plans during the peak afternoon hours.
Plan Ahead
If you are heading to the beach, stick to lifeguarded areas and stay out of the water when red flags are posted. Boaters should secure loose gear ahead of the choppy conditions. For the latest advisories and surf safety guidance, check the National Weather Service or local lifeguard posts before you go.
