Miami breaks record high temperature Tuesday after mercury rises to 96 degrees
MIAMI – Another high-temperature record has fallen as South Florida swelters with oppressive heat for a second day in a row.
The mercury at Miami International Airport reached 96 degrees, shattering the previous record of 95 that was set in 2012.
The hot weather is not expected to ease until later this week.
The National Weather Service has extended a Heat Advisory for Miami-Dade, Broward, and Monroe counties.
Afternoon temperatures this week will be in the mid-90s. However, with heat indices from 105 to 110 degrees forecast for the first half of the week, the advisory is in effect through 8 p.m. on Thursday.
The National Weather Service issues a Heat Advisory when a heat index of 105 degrees or higher is expected for at least two hours.
Under this advisory, everyone is urged to precautions, especially those who are at the most risk such as children, infants, older adults, people with chronic medical conditions, outdoor workers, and pregnant women.
Dr. Bruno Moraes, an emergency room physician at HCA Florida University Hospital in Davie, told CBS News Miami’s Peter D’Oench, that there are warning signs for people who may be experiencing problems. He said “Patients can start experiencing nausea or there may be vomiting or weakness. Patients may pass out. If you feel disoriented it is time to go inside.”
People are urged to drink plenty of fluids, but avoid those that contain caffeine, high sugar content, and alcohol. Stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors.
Dr. Moraes said “Drink plenty of fluids and take off extra clothing and spray yourself with fluids and get inside in the air conditioning, If you feel you are having an asthma attack, consult a professional and stay indoors. People can pass out from this heat.”
Dr, Moraes also said that Saharan Dust that has reached South Florida “can aggravate patients with underlying issues such as asthma or COPD or pulmonary hypertension.”
CBS News Miami found people taking special precautions while working outdoors.
In Copper City, appliance deliveryman Juan Gonzalez said, “It is a lot harder than usual. What I do is drink more water. You have got to stay hydrated in this heat. It can give you a heatstroke. I try to drink 16 ounces of water an hour. That’s the best thing you can do. The more water the better.”
Walking by a park in Copper City, Briana Williamson and Joy Bardons said they were being very careful.
Williamson said “I stay hydrated and use sunscreen. You know I am being careful.”
Bardons said, “I am making sure I am hydrated, using sunscreen too and protecting my face.”
Experts also say you should limit the time you work or spend time outside. Wear clothing that is lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting. If you’re outside, wear a hat and sunscreen to protect your face and scalp from harmful UV rays.
If you must be outdoors, slow down, take breaks in a shaded or cool area, and drink cool fluids every hour.
If you feel lightheaded, confused, weak, or faint, seek medical attention immediately by calling 911.
For dog owners wanting to take their four-legged friends for a walk, it’s important to remember the seven-second rule. Place your hand on the concrete for seven seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your pet too.
