The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a heat advisory from 11 a.m. on Wednesday, August 20, until 7 p.m. for the southeastern part of Florida.
The heat index is expected to reach up to 110°F (43°C).
The NOAA reminds residents that high temperatures and high humidity can cause heat-related illnesses and advises taking the following precautions and preparatory measures:
“Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Take extra precautions when outside. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing. Try to limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Take action when you see symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.”
HIGH RISK OF RIP CURRENTS
From Wednesday afternoon, August 20, through Saturday afternoon, the NOAA is forecasting a high risk of dangerous rip currents for coastal areas of Broward and Miami-Dade counties.
To that end, NOAA is continuing to monitor water levels and winds associated with Hurricane Erin, which is expected to cause dangerous waves and rip currents along the Bahamas, much of the U.S. East Coast, Bermuda, and Atlantic Canada over the next few days.
Reminder: rip currents can pull even strong swimmers away from shore into deeper water.
Precautionary measures and preparation: swim near a lifeguard. If you are caught in a rip current, relax and float. Do not swim against the current. If possible, swim parallel to the shore. If you cannot escape, face the shore and call or wave for help.
WILDFIRES
According to NOAA, smoke from wildfires is reducing visibility in parts of Broward County: « Smoke from inland wildfires is currently impacting portions of metro Broward County early this morning. Visiblities along roadways may be reduced to 5 miles or less at times where smoke is densest. Northwesterly wild flow today is expected to continue advecting smoke across this region. Motorists should exercise caution along smoky roadways. »
