Naples set a new high record on Sunday after the official local weather station hit 98 degrees. Tampa set an all-time record of 100°F on Sunday. Records in Tampa go back 135 years!
Contrary to what many coastal residents might be feeling, it is tough to reach 100°F near either coast of Florida. Coastal areas usually stay below 100°F due to sea breezes or onshore flow, while inland regions have time to warm up before the breeze arrives. If they don´t develop storms, these winds warm as they travel over land, keeping the temperatures warmer. For example, Miami has only reached 100°F once, in 1942. Meanwhile, inland locations like Orlando have reached 100°F at least 20 times, and Gainesville has tied or exceeded this mark over 25 times.
The heat exacerbates illnesses related to these extreme weather conditions. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Do not wait until you are thirsty to drink water, as you could you could be dehydrated. Limit your time outdoors, take care of the elderly and kids, as they are more vulnerable to these extremely hot temperatures. If you are outdoors, be sure to take breaks frequently in the shade or, even better, come indoors to air-conditioned areas.
The heat continues through the last week of July.…