Feels-like temperatures could reach 110 degrees across the Aventura area this week, and the National Weather Service says the dangerous heat may not let up until late next week.
The NWS issued heat advisories covering Miami-Dade County on Thursday, running from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., with heat index values forecast between 105 and 108 degrees. By Friday, the agency raised its South Florida forecast to a range of 105 to 110 degrees and classified the risk as "major."
Heat advisories were in effect for 31 of Florida's 67 counties on Friday.
Saharan dust and high pressure are fueling the heat
NWS meteorologist Ana Porres-Vazquez said high-pressure systems over the Atlantic Ocean are drawing moist, warm air toward South Florida, pushing heat index values well past the 105-degree advisory threshold for Miami-Dade County.
"People that are outside, construction workers, anybody that's going to be outdoors for a long period of time or not in shaded areas … could be at risk for heat illnesses," Porres-Vazquez told the Sun Sentinel.
AccuWeather senior meteorologist Dave Houk said Saharan dust plumes drifting across the state are making conditions worse by absorbing sunlight and trapping heat. The high humidity compounds the problem because the body struggles to cool itself through sweat evaporation, he said.
Outdoor workers, seniors and young children face the highest risk
The NWS warning applies to anyone without adequate cooling or hydration, but outdoor workers, seniors and young children face the highest danger. Porres-Vazquez specifically warned residents not to leave children or pets inside parked cars during the advisory window.
South Florida has recorded 11 heat advisories for Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties so far in 2026, according to NWS meteorologist Mark Fox. That's down from 22 during the same period in 2025, but conditions remain life-threatening when advisories are active.
Dangerous heat expected to persist into next week
The NWS said dangerous heat is expected to persist "over the next several days, possibly continuing through next week and weekend." For Aventura, Sunny Isles Beach and Golden Beach residents, that means planning for extreme conditions through at least the week of July 13.
Fox said rain chances may increase later this week, offering a brief respite, but temperatures could climb even higher the following week.
NWS urges hydration and access to air conditioning
The NWS recommends drinking plenty of fluids, staying in air-conditioned spaces, avoiding direct sun during peak hours and checking on relatives and neighbors. Residents seeking cooling center information can call Miami-Dade County's 311 helpline or visit miamidade.gov.
Local police departments in Aventura, Sunny Isles Beach and Golden Beach had not issued public statements specific to this heat event as of Friday.
