With more than a week left in the month, experts confirm that this May is already the hottest ever recorded in Miami. The past weekend saw record-breaking temperatures that pushed the average heat index to a new high for May, according to Brian McNoldy, a senior research associate at the Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science at the University of Miami, who spoke to the Miami Herald.
"These temperatures in May are completely out of the ordinary," McNoldy stated, explaining that the heat index—a measure combining temperature and humidity—last weekend in Miami "would have been exceptional even in three other months." Historically, the first and second weeks of August are typically the hottest times of the year, but the weekend temperatures reached a heat index of 112 degrees Fahrenheit (44.4°C), "six more than any heat index recorded in May."
"Besides the crazy 2023, the heat index has already spent more time above the 108°F threshold (and tied with 110°+) in Miami than in any other full year," McNoldy remarked on his X account. "And it’s not even June yet."
According to McNoldy, this weekend saw the "perfect combination" of ridge pressure (where air sinks and warms), fewer clouds, and humid air moving in from the southwest.
Additionally, other records were broken by the end of last week. On Sunday night, temperatures averaged 89°F (31.6°C). This mark represents "a tie for the third-highest average nightly temperature ever recorded in Miami, and that has never happened in May before," he noted.
Earlier last week, the National Weather Service (NWS) had warned of a heat wave that would impact southern Florida, particularly Miami, West Palm, Cape Coral, Palm Bay, Tampa, and Orlando.
As a result, residents were advised to stay alert for possible warnings about "dangerous heat indices."
Reports indicate that by Monday, four new daily average temperature records and humidity levels had been set in Miami over the past five days.
However, NWS predictions for the coming week suggest some relief, as experts forecast a reduction in excessive heat, partly due to rain.
This Tuesday afternoon, Miami and other southern Florida cities experienced thunderstorms with heavy rain, although "precipitation remains well below the monthly average," according to 7 Weather.
The weather report for the city of Miami showed a "20-degree drop" (°F) in the afternoon—between noon and 4 p.m.—thanks to the strong storms.
The Miami and South Florida Weather Service forecasted that this Wednesday, maximum temperatures would rise above 80 degrees across southeastern Florida and hover around 90 degrees in the southwest. Additionally, afternoon thunderstorms are expected, with the highest likelihood in interior areas.
NWS experts predict another scorching summer for Miami. The year 2023 was the hottest ever recorded in the city.
Miami's Record-Breaking Heat in May: Key Questions Answered
Given the unprecedented heat experienced in Miami this May, many have questions about what this means and how to stay safe. Below are some key questions and answers regarding this extreme weather event.
What causes such extreme heat in Miami during May?
The extreme heat is caused by a combination of ridge pressure, fewer clouds, and humid air moving in from the southwest, creating a "perfect combination" for high temperatures.
How does the heat index differ from regular temperature measurements?
The heat index combines temperature and humidity to measure how hot it feels to the human body, which can be significantly higher than the actual temperature.
What precautions should residents take during extreme heat warnings?
Residents should stay hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor activities, seek air-conditioned environments, and stay informed about weather updates and heat advisories.
Will the heat continue throughout the summer?
Experts predict another hot summer for Miami, with temperatures likely remaining high in the coming months.