A Heat Advisory was issued by the National Weather Service on August 3, 2025, for Miami‑Dade and neighboring Broward counties, in effect from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., as sweltering heat and intense humidity push the “feels‑like” temperature into the 105–110 °F range.
This marks one of the first official advisories of the summer. Despite unusually hot and humid conditions throughout South Florida, heat alerts had been notably absent through much of the season. Prior to early August, no advisories were issued in 2025—an uncommon lull compared to recent years.
On Saturday, Miami‑Dade and Broward counties witnessed actual air temperatures hovering in the low 90s °F, while elevated humidity levels caused heat index readings to exceed 105 °F for hours, prompting the advisory. In some communities such as Coral Springs and Weston, the “feels‑like” temperatures briefly hit 106 °F, with Miami proper reaching up to 101 °F.
The region remains gripped by high-pressure systems, forming what meteorologists call a “heat dome.” These conditions suppress rainfall and weaken sea breezes, further intensifying the heat.
Public health officials emphasize that older adults, young children, outdoor laborers, and individuals without access to air conditioning face an elevated risk of heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Residents are strongly advised to stay hydrated with water, not alcohol or high-sugar, caffeinated drinks. They are urged to limit outdoor activity during the peak hours of 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., seek air-conditioned or shaded environments, use light, loose clothing, hats, and sunscreen, and never leave pets or people unattended in vehicles—as interiors can quickly reach lethal temperatures.
Miami‑Dade County expands on these guidelines by operating 64 designated cooling centers at libraries, parks, and community centers, and providing multilingual education and hydration grants for small businesses.
Miami typically experiences its hottest conditions in July and August, with heat index values rising into the triple digits regularly. According to the NWS Climate Prediction Center, 2025 had a 50% chance of being hotter than average—yet Miami‑Dade saw no heat advisory warnings until the first week of August, a delay linked to lower humidity levels and cooler ocean temperatures earlier in the season.
Historically, Miami‑Dade issued significantly more heat advisories in 2023 and 2024, often starting as early as May or June. By contrast, 2025’s delay is attributed in part to widespread drought conditions and reduced sea-surface humidity, which kept heat index values just below thresholds until recently.
While isolated thunderstorms could offer some brief respite—especially over inland areas—overall rain chances remain low through the weekend. High temperatures will stay in the upper 80s to low 90s °F, with heat index values hovering above 105 °F during peak afternoon hours.
As a low-pressure system approaches by mid-next week, rain and storm activity is expected to pick up, which may help moderate temperatures somewhat. Still, triple-digit “feels-like” temperatures are expected to persist into the early workweek.
Miami‑Dade County has implemented a comprehensive seasonal strategy—running from May 1 through October 31—to reduce heat risks. Initiatives include distributing efficient air conditioners, expanding tree canopy planting, and providing utility assistance to vulnerable households. The county aims to decrease heat‑related ER visits, which on average rise significantly once heat indices exceed 86 °F.
The county reports it logs lowest rates of heat-related ER visits among Florida counties, attributing success to proactive preparedness and public communication campaigns.
Though similar heat waves struck South Florida in earlier summers, this Heat Advisory marks a critical threshold for public health. It underscores that conditions deadly to individuals without access to cooling are now widespread across the region. With heat indices between 105–110 °F and minimal rainfall expected through early August, staying indoors, staying hydrated, and avoiding the sun during peak hours are vital for protection.
Health officials reiterate: even if temperatures seem manageable—the combined effect of heat plus humidity can turn an otherwise mild afternoon into a dangerous risk.