South Florida is heading into the kind of late-July heat that makes the weather app feel like a dare. A heat advisory is in effect Wednesday for Miami-Dade and Broward, with afternoon temperatures in the low to mid-90s and heat index readings potentially reaching 100 to 106 degrees. Thursday could be hotter, with Miami forecast to reach 96 degrees.
According to CBS News Miami, the advisory runs from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday as much of South Florida faces a major risk of heat-related illness. Spotty showers and isolated thunderstorms remain possible, while beachgoers face an extreme UV index and boaters should watch for southerly winds, moderate chop and 1- to 2-foot seas.
The number to watch is not just the thermometer. The National Weather Service Miami explains that the heat index accounts for humidity and can feel even more intense in direct sunshine. The latest advisory follows a string of similar heat alerts this month, including an earlier Miami heat warning reported by Hoodline.
Thursday Could Put Miami Near A Daily Record
Thursday is expected to be the hottest day of the stretch, with the latest forecast calling for 96 degrees in Miami and 95 degrees in Fort Lauderdale. Miami's daily record for Thursday is 95 degrees, set in 2015, while Fort Lauderdale's record is 96 degrees from 1915; those benchmarks are also listed in the National Weather Service climate records. Friday should remain near the mid-90s with feels-like temperatures in the 100s, followed by a somewhat higher storm chance Saturday and possible Saharan dust and hazy skies Sunday.
Residents who must be outside should move strenuous activity to the morning or evening, take frequent breaks in shade or air conditioning, and drink water before thirst sets in. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention identifies older adults, young children, people with chronic conditions and outdoor workers as especially vulnerable. Heavy sweating, dizziness, weakness, nausea or confusion can signal heat illness; confusion or loss of consciousness requires immediate emergency help.
