The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a warning about an impending heat wave set to strike South Florida this week. Among the most affected areas will be Miami, West Palm, Cape Coral, Palm Bay, Tampa, and Orlando.
Record-Breaking Temperatures Expected
Weather forecasts indicate that the heat wave will particularly impact South Florida between Tuesday, May 14, and Wednesday, May 15. Citizens are urged to stay alert for possible warnings about "dangerous heat indices," especially on Wednesday, when the temperature is expected to peak.
Experts predict that Wednesday will be the hottest day of the week, with highs reaching around 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius). The CBS News Miami NEXT Weather team estimates temperatures could soar to 96 degrees in Miami. Current projections suggest temperatures will hit 90 degrees across large areas of the South, with some regions potentially experiencing up to 110 degrees (43.33 degrees Celsius). The perceived temperatures could feel even higher due to humidity levels.
According to CBS News Miami NEXT Weather, Miami could see temperatures rise to 96 degrees. The current record for this date is 96 degrees, set in 1995. Meteorologists estimate it will feel between 95 and 105 degrees. The forecast for Thursday predicts a high of 94 degrees in Miami, with the standing record for that date being 95 degrees, recorded in 1995. For Friday, the NWS forecasts a high of 93 degrees, with the current record being 94 degrees, set in 2008.
Adequate hydration is strongly recommended as the excessive heat will persist for several days. "As we begin the workweek, we highlight the potential for temperatures well above average and dangerous heat index values late this week. Heat advisories are likely to be needed later in the week, and excessive heat warnings are possible," the NWS posted on social media.
Fort Lauderdale, located in Broward County, already reached a record temperature of 98 degrees Fahrenheit (36.6 degrees Celsius) this past Saturday, the highest in the last 15 years.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), extreme heat is responsible for 1,220 deaths annually in the United States. High-temperature-related injuries range from skin rashes to burns and heatstroke.
Although the rainy season begins on Wednesday, May 15, the likelihood of precipitation remains low until midweek. However, scattered showers could appear on Thursday and Friday.
The heat will persist in the coming days, with temperatures remaining above the seasonal average of 90 degrees.
Understanding the South Florida Heat Wave
In light of the historic heat wave expected to hit South Florida, here are some important questions and answers to help you stay informed and safe.
What areas in South Florida will be most affected by the heat wave?
The areas most affected will include Miami, West Palm, Cape Coral, Palm Bay, Tampa, and Orlando.
When is the peak of the heat wave expected?
The peak of the heat wave is expected between Tuesday, May 14, and Wednesday, May 15, with Wednesday being the hottest day.
What precautions should residents take during the heat wave?
Residents should stay hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and stay informed through official weather warnings and advisories.
How dangerous can extreme heat be?
Extreme heat can be very dangerous, leading to serious health issues such as heatstroke, burns, and even death. The CDC reports that it is responsible for 1,220 deaths annually in the United States.