Palmetto Bay recorded a heat index of 116°F at 4 p.m. Monday, Aug. 17, the second-highest reading in South Florida at that hour and a sharp jump from the 105-to-110-degree range forecast just a day earlier.
The National Weather Service placed Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties under a heat advisory from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday. Only North Miami, at 117°F, registered hotter than Palmetto Bay; Coconut Grove came in at 115°F.
City of Miami Fire Rescue Lt. Pete Sanchez told WSVN that Saharan dust is amplifying the heat and making it harder to breathe outdoors.
"It's important if you don't have to be outdoors, don't," Sanchez said. "If you do, frequent breaks, hydrate, protect yourself from the sun and, worst-case scenario, call 911."
WSVN cameras showed empty soccer fields across the area Monday afternoon as residents stayed inside.
Election Day adds outdoor risk
Meteorologists forecast Tuesday, Aug. 18, to be even hotter, with a projected high of 98°F in the City of Miami and triple-digit heat index values. Tuesday is also Florida's primary Election Day, meaning voters may spend extended time waiting in outdoor lines.
Sanchez urged anyone standing in line to seek shade under trees or structures during breaks and said supervisors should ensure outdoor workers take frequent cooling pauses.
Cooling sites and safety tips
Miami-Dade County activated 64 cooling sites Monday, offering air-conditioned spaces and water. Coral Reef Branch Library, at 9211 Coral Reef Drive, is among the closest to Palmetto Bay. It is open Monday through Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Dr. Jorge Vallejo, speaking to WSVN, recommended drinking six to eight cups of water or natural juices daily, staying in shade and wearing light-colored clothing.
Signs of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, dizziness, headache, nausea and weakness. Heat stroke, marked by confusion or loss of consciousness, is a medical emergency. Call 911 immediately.
Officials also reminded residents never to leave children, pets or seniors in a parked vehicle.
Above-average temperatures are forecast through the rest of the work week.
