Miami Heat Wave: Index Near 105 as Storms, Wildfire Smoke Threaten South Florida

Miami is starting Monday with clear skies, muggy air and temperatures around 79 degrees at Miami International Airport, but the calm opening will give way to another hot, storm-prone day. The high is expected to reach 89, with heat index values near 105.

Morning Showers, Then Brighter Skies

A 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms is forecast from roughly 8 a.m. to noon, with the best odds for rain shifting inland as sea breezes collide. The National Weather Service in Miami says some storms could drift back toward coastal neighborhoods, bringing brief heavy rain, frequent lightning and strong wind gusts.

After the morning activity, skies should turn mostly sunny for the afternoon, although scattered showers and thunderstorms may redevelop later, especially over interior South Florida. Southeast winds will build from 3 to 9 mph, and any stronger storm could produce localized flooding in low-lying spots.

Smoke Could Blur Visibility West Of Miami

Smoke from wildfires may lower visibility and create unhealthy air quality in parts of the Everglades and western suburbs. Drivers and people with outdoor plans in those areas should watch for changing conditions as the smoke shifts.

Storm Chances Rise Midweek

Tuesday looks a little hotter, with a high near 90 and heat index values again reaching 105. Rain chances rise to 50% Tuesday night and 70% Wednesday, when showers and thunderstorms are likely at times from morning into afternoon.

That wetter pattern is expected to continue through the weekend, with daytime highs near 89 to 90 and daily rain chances around 40% to 50% from Thursday through Sunday. No watches, warnings or advisories are currently listed for the area, but lightning, sudden downpours and gusty winds could still make beach, boating and outdoor plans a moving target.