Sweltering heat and high humidity continue to impact Florida, with the National Weather Service issuing heat warnings for the entire state on Friday.
In Miami-Dade and Broward counties, the heat warning is in effect on Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The heat index (the temperature with humidity) is between 40 and 42 degrees. In the Florida Keys, the heat index could reach up to 44 degrees. The warning is in effect there from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
August 9th, 4:00 a.m.: A heat warning is again in effect for all of South Florida today from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
This afternoon, perceived temperatures of up to 43 °C are possible.
Never leave children or pets in parked cars! #LookBeforeTheLock ️ pic.twitter.com/0AqJPppsuE
— NWSMiami (@NWSMiami) 9 August 2024
The statewide heat warnings followed Thursday’s heat alerts and extreme heat warnings. The Panhandle was under an extreme heat warning on Thursday with temperatures reaching 115 degrees.
The NWS issues a heat warning for Miami-Dade and Broward when the heat index is forecast to reach 105°F or higher for at least two hours, and for the Keys at 108°F or higher. Extreme heat warnings are issued for Miami-Dade and Broward when temperatures feel like 110°F or higher, and for the Keys at 113°F or higher.
Although there are no extreme heat warnings in effect for Friday, heat warnings continue to pose a serious health risk.
The National Weather Service recommends staying indoors during the hottest hours, drinking plenty of fluids, and avoiding outdoor activities. It’s important to stay in air-conditioned spaces, wear light, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing, and protect yourself from UV rays with a hat and sunscreen if you must be outside.
For those who must work outdoors, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends taking frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
If you experience symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, weakness, or fainting, seek immediate medical attention by calling 911. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes heat-related symptoms as follows:
Heat exhaustion
▪ Heavy sweating
▪ Cold, pale and moist skin
▪ Fast, weak pulse
▪ powerlessness
▪ Excessive thirst
heatstroke
▪ Rapid rise in body temperature to 41 °C or more within 10–15 minutes
▪ Lack of sweating
▪ Hot, dry skin
▪ confusion
▪ Fast, strong pulse
▪ unconsciousness