The National Weather Service's Miami office kept a Heat Advisory in effect for Miami-Dade and Broward counties through early Monday evening, July 20, after forecasting peak heat index values of 104°F to 108°F. Forecasters also said more heat concerns were likely later in the week.
The advisory is a timely reminder that South Florida heat requires more than checking the air temperature. Humidity can make conditions feel substantially hotter, and the risk rises quickly for people working outdoors, exercising, waiting for transit or living without reliable air conditioning.
This guide is general safety information. For the latest conditions, use the National Weather Service Miami forecast and follow any local alerts or instructions.
Do this first on a high-heat day
- Check the heat index before leaving. Look at the hourly forecast, not only the daily high, and move strenuous activity to the cooler morning or evening when possible.
- Build in water and cooling breaks. Drink water regularly instead of waiting for thirst. Outdoor workers and athletes should have shade or air conditioning available for recovery.
- Reduce direct sun exposure. Use shade, loose light-colored clothing and a hat. Never leave children, older adults or pets in a parked vehicle, even briefly.
- Check on people at greater risk. Miami-Dade County highlights older adults, young children, pregnant people, outdoor workers, people with chronic health conditions and residents without dependable cooling.
Where to cool off in Miami-Dade
Miami-Dade County maintains an online cooling-site directory with public libraries and community facilities across the county. The directory lists addresses, phone numbers and hours, which can change by day.
Check the listing before traveling. If the nearest site is closed, another air-conditioned public building such as a library, community center or mall may offer temporary relief. Residents can also call 311 for county information. Anyone feeling seriously ill should call 911 rather than trying to travel alone.
Know the warning signs
Heat exhaustion can cause heavy sweating, nausea, weakness, cramps, headache, dizziness or fainting. Move the person to a cooler place, loosen clothing, apply cool wet cloths and offer sips of water if the person is awake and able to drink. Get medical help if symptoms worsen, vomiting occurs or symptoms last more than an hour.
Heat stroke is an emergency. Warning signs can include a body temperature of 103°F or higher, confusion, loss of consciousness, a fast strong pulse, dizziness or nausea. Call 911 immediately, move the person to a cooler place and begin cooling with wet cloths or a cool bath. Do not give fluids to someone who is confused or unconscious.
Plan for the next hot day
The National Weather Service's July 20 discussion projected another Miami high near 93°F on Tuesday and said heat concerns could return as the week progressed. Before work, exercise or errands, check the hourly heat index, identify a nearby cooling option and make sure anyone depending on you has water and a way indoors.
The practical bottom line is simple: treat the heat index as a planning number. A few minutes spent checking the forecast and the county's cooling map can prevent a routine Miami day from becoming a medical emergency.
