FLORIDA — Forecasters are warning that dangerous heat could affect Florida during the middle of June as a widespread heat wave develops across much of the United States.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center, above-normal temperatures are expected across the entire lower 48 states from June 11 through June 17. Florida is included in the area forecast to experience warmer-than-average conditions as a strong ridge of high pressure builds across the country.
Meteorologists say the combination of above-normal temperatures and Florida’s typically high humidity levels could create dangerous heat index values, making conditions feel significantly hotter than the actual air temperature.
The National Weather Service’s Weather Prediction Center said the developing weather pattern is expected to promote above-average temperatures along the East Coast. Warm overnight temperatures are also a concern because they limit the body’s ability to recover from daytime heat and can increase the risk of heat-related illnesses.
Weather experts explain that a ridge of high pressure causes air to sink and warm, often leading to clear skies, limited rainfall and prolonged stretches of hot weather. These patterns are commonly associated with major summer heat waves.
Forecasters say the warm pattern is expected to continue through at least mid-June, with some areas of the eastern United States potentially experiencing an extended period of above-normal temperatures.
Residents are encouraged to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day, wear lightweight clothing and seek air-conditioned locations when possible. Officials also remind Floridians never to leave children or pets in vehicles, where temperatures can become deadly within minutes.
The exact temperatures will vary across Florida, but forecasters say the state could experience several days of elevated heat and humidity as the pattern develops.
