Extreme Heat

There is heat, and then there is extreme heat! Extreme heat is a period of high heat and humidity with temperatures above 90 degrees for at least two to three days. In extreme heat, your body works extra hard to maintain a normal temperature, which can lead to illness or even death. Extreme heat is responsible for the highest number of annual deaths among all weather-related hazards.

In Miami-Dade County, extreme heat is on the rise due to climate change and urban development patterns. However, with public education, policies and partnerships, heat related illnesses and deaths can be prevented.

Heat Safety Tips

When it’s hot, the number of people in Miami-Dade County with serious health problems like heat exhaustion, heat stroke, heart attacks, stroke, and kidney failure rises with the temperature.

Click here for Safety Tips for Outdoor Workers

Click here for Heat Related Illness Information

Who is at higher risk?

If you are in one of these groups and/or are the caretaker of someone in any of these groups take extra precautions to stay cool, drink water, and take breaks from the heat:

• Older Adults (65 and older)
• Young children
• People with chronic health conditions or mental illness
• Athletes who exercise outdoors 
• Outdoor workers
• People living unsheltered or with limited access to AC
• Pregnant people
• Pets

Note: Medications and health conditions can make you more sensitive to heat, including those for allergies and colds, thyroid, depression, heart/blood pressure, and weight loss. Check with your doctor about your health conditions and medications.

What to do on hot days?

• Check on friends, family and neighbors who may be more vulnerable to heat
• Stay Cool
  • Spend time in air-conditioned buildings if you can (if not available at home or with friends and family, try neighborhood community centers, libraries, malls, or movie theaters)
  •  Avoid direct contact with the sun
  • Reduce physical activity and move to shaded areas
  • Do outdoor activities in the cooler morning or evening hours
  • Cool your body down quickly by wearing a wet scarf, bandana, or shirt
• Stay Hydrated
  • Drink plenty of water and don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink more 
  • Limit or avoid caffeine and alcohol. They can be dehydrating
  • Drink electrolyte drinks if you have access to them
• Never leave infants, children or pets in a parked car, even if the windows are cracked open. It only takes a few minutes for severe medical problems and even death to occur
• Watch for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Seek medical care immediately if you know someone who experiences symptoms
• Check the local weather forecast – the National Weather Service is the best place to access the most current weather and forecast information