Study Reveals Higher Temperatures in Miami-Dade County Than Reported by Weather Apps
A recent study conducted by researchers from the University of Miami, Florida International University, and other institutions has shed light on the actual temperature disparities in Miami-Dade County. The findings indicate that many areas within the county experience significantly higher temperatures than those officially reported by weather stations, with an average difference of six degrees Fahrenheit.
Traditionally, the official daily temperatures for Miami-Dade County are derived from a weather station situated atop the Miami International Airport, representing a single location. However, the research, based on nearly three years of data collection and employing 130 sensors placed throughout Miami, reveals substantial variations across the county. These sensors were strategically positioned at popular spots such as bus stops, playgrounds, schools, street intersections, and other relevant locations. Volunteers played a crucial role in the citizen science initiative aimed at understanding the impacts of extreme heat in South Florida.
Lead author of the paper, Amy Clement, who is a professor of atmospheric sciences at the University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science, emphasized that the study highlighted the challenge of perceiving the gradual and long-term effects of heat. She stated, "The story here is that heat doesn't come in waves so it can be really difficult to see the impacts. It's not like an acute moment in time where you say 'Oh it's hot and then what happens?' This particular paper really speaks to that. The actual threshold of what is dangerous can be exceeded in parts of the city even when the forecasts don't show danger."
The research unveiled variations in temperatures across various areas of the county, including Downtown, as well as suburban regions like Westchester. Advocates, who have long advocated for better protection against extreme heat for Miami-Dade residents, perceive this study as validation of the concerns expressed by the local community. The study's co-author and CEO of Catalyst Miami, Zelalem Adefris, acknowledged that the intersections between climate change and heat had a direct and significant impact on people, surpassing even the influence of rising sea levels.
The study's findings have already influenced the National Weather Service's Miami office, prompting them to revise their heat advisory threshold. As part of an experimental approach this summer, the National Weather Service will issue heat advisories when the heat index reaches 105 degrees Fahrenheit, rather than the previous threshold of 108 degrees Fahrenheit. Furthermore, a heat warning will be issued when the heat index exceeds 110 degrees Fahrenheit.
The research indicates that certain areas within Miami-Dade County surpass the 108-degree threshold more than 100 days a year. This figure holds significance as it serves as a critical threshold triggering public safety measures. Currently, the county expands operating hours in air-conditioned public spaces like libraries and community centers during extreme heat events. County employees also collaborate with local homeless shelters to ensure individuals living outside are safeguarded from the harsh conditions.
Moreover, the revised heat threshold number could have implications for worker protection during extreme heat, potentially influencing the implementation of Miami-Dade County's proposed heat standard law or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's national heat standard. These laws are expected to establish guidelines for providing shade, water, and rest to employees, likely tied to specific temperature thresholds.
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