MIAMI BEACH, FLA. (WSVN) – The National Weather Service issued a heat advisory for Miami-Dade County, warning that the heat index could reach 105 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.
Friday’s advisory, which was in effect from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., came as county officials urged residents and visitors to take precautions during this excessive heat event.
“We want our residents and visitors to be aware of the potential risks of extreme heat so that we can all take the proper precautions to stay safe and healthy here in Miami-Dade County,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. “I encourage all residents to do a heat check: drink water, rest and find shade if you are working or playing outdoors this week.”
The heat advisory was even felt down in the Florida Keys, where the heat advisory was in effect until 6 p.m.
“If I was an ice cube, I would be melted right now,” said a man.
In good fun, the man even noticed one of 7News’ photographers sweating due to the heat.
“He needs a towel, somebody give this man a towel,” he said.
The advisory stated that children, infants, older adults, people with chronic medical conditions, outdoor workers and pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. The county advises these groups to take extra care.
“I just want people to be aware of the symptoms of heat exhaustion,” said Dr. Mushfeka Baker from HCA Florida Northwest Hospital. “If you start feeling nauseous, they feel like they want to vomit or they get dizzy, or start experiencing headaches, palpitations, muscle cramping.”
“If they have blotted skin or red skin that means they are suffering from either heat exhaustion or heat stroke,” said Miami Fire Rescue Lt. Pete Sanchez. “Those are important signs to get them out of the heat.”
The famous thermometer at Miami Beach reached to 95 degrees.
“I can cook an egg on the side of the road on Ocean Drive,” said Lulu, a local resident.
Residents without access to air conditioning are encouraged to seek relief with friends, family or at public air-conditioned facilities like libraries, malls or community centers. For outdoor workers, employers should alter work schedules, provide shaded rest breaks and ensure they have enough drinking water.
“I love the white hot Heat when they in the gym playing, but this out here? This [expletive] is just ridiculous,” said Lulu. “I’m not talking about the [Miami] Heat, I’m talking about this heat.”
That didn’t stop LuLu from working out at the beach.
“This my first year of being a snow bunny. I have to; I’m going to be an Aspen,” he said.
A heat index of 105 degrees or higher was expected for at least two hours in Miami Beach, where Lulu was outside for most of that time.
“Honestly, man, the sun is beautiful for us, man, so get out,” he said. Wait till it’s about 3 or 4.”
Friday night, the famous thermometer at Miami Beach clocked in at 90 degrees, and “feels-like” temperatures were still in the triple digits.
Many who were out trying to enjoy their Friday night said they’re not fans of the heat.
“Oh, my God, it’s hot as heck,” said Broward resident Iris Tarrago. “I don’t wanna go out. I stay home, inside, in the air. It’s too hot, way too hot.”
Mark Duncan from Las Vegas said the weather is just right.
“I just love it, I love 90 degrees, 10 o’clock at night, sunshine, the best day ever,” he said.
Duncan’s solution to enduring “feels like” temperatures in the hundreds? Just take your clothes off.
“Definitely can go shirtless out here all day, all night. It’s perfect for me,” he said.
If all else fails, Duncan said, he’s ready to jump in the water.
“If it gets too hot, I just jump in the water. It’s all good,” he said.
Kobi Adato from Dallas isn’t as much of a fan as Duncan.
“It’s sticky, hot,” said Adato. “It’s steamy, and I have to change three times a day, and I have to shower five times a day.”
Key precautions include drinking plenty of fluids, eating light and cool foods, avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat, wearing lightweight and light-colored clothing, and never leaving children or pets in cars. Pets should be brought indoors or provided with shaded areas and water if they must stay outside.
“Don’t have the kids out, don’t have the dogs out, man, bring some water for the dogs,” Lulu said. “But do get out because the sun do got Vitamin K. It’s good for you. It make you strong like bull.”
Officials urge the community to look out for symptoms of heat-related illnesses, such as heat stroke, and to seek medical attention if needed. If you feel lightheaded, confused, weak or faint, seek medical attention immediately by calling 911. For more information, go to miamidade.gov/heat.
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