The Old Farmer’s Almanac predicts a scorching summer in Florida in 2026, with above-normal temperatures, particularly in July and August. The weather trend points to a “hot and dry” summer, with heat intensifying as the season progresses.
The hottest periods are expected in mid-June, early to mid-July, and late July through early August, with temperatures 4 to 8 °F above historical averages and highs potentially exceeding 100 °F (38 °C) during heat wave peaks.
The Almanac recommends preparing for these extreme temperatures, and the National Weather Service (NWS) advises doing so by staying hydrated, limiting outdoor activities to the early morning or evening hours, and using air conditioning, as heat indices in Florida during the summer often exceed 105 °F (40 °C) . Among the essential measures, the NWS lists: checking on vulnerable neighbors, wearing light clothing, and never leaving children or pets in a car.
In Florida, episodes of extreme summer heat have intensified significantly over the past 60 years: average temperatures have risen by nearly 1°F since 1950, and the number of hot days is increasing by about 2.5 days per decade. Miami-Dade County now experiences 133 days of extreme heat, compared to 85 in 1960, accompanied by a marked increase in dangerous humidity (heat index). According to the University of Florida/IFAS, temperature increases are more pronounced in urban areas than in rural regions, mainly due to the expansion of concrete and asphalt, which trap heat.
This summer, drought conditions are also predicted by the Old Farmer’s Almanac. In fact, they have already begun, as 2026 is particularly dry in Florida. With drier conditions, the need to conserve water will be paramount. Watering deeply but less frequently, using drip irrigation, and providing some shade during periods of extreme heat are best practices to follow during dry spells.
According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac website, its forecasts are based on a comparison of solar activity and weather trends, drawing on various scientific fields: solar science, climatology, and meteorology. It also notes that its forecasting method is based on a modern adaptation of the formula developed in 1792 by the almanac’s founder, Robert B. Thomas.
