Miami Beach Weather

It's no secret that one of the draws of South Florida, both for residents and visitors, is its sunny, warm weather. Average monthly high temperatures in Miami range from 70°F in December and January to over 80°F in July and August. Summers are usually accompanied by high humidity. Florida also boasts an average of eight hours of sunshine every day of the year.

Florida does have a short rainy season centered around July and August. The high temperatures and humidity also give rise to regular afternoon thunderstorms, but these are generally short-lived. Rainy days taper off sharply in October, and Florida stays relatively dry for the rest of the year.

Storms: Don't Let Them Stop You

Hurricanes are a fact of life in South Florida. Hurricane season starts June 1 and continues until November 30 with the majority of the storms occurring in September. A hurricane is technically classified as a tropical storm with wind speeds of over 74 mph. In addition to the winds, a tidal surge almost always accompanies a hurricane, devastating coastal areas. However, the major storms can be avoided, as long as you pay attention to the weather before leaving for a trip to the area.

2004 was a particularly bad year for hurricanes in Florida, with three major storms sweeping across Florida in rapid succession and drawing a lot of national attention. The National Hurricane Center, located in Miami, can detect a hurricane long before it reaches Florida. Television and radio bulletins keep the public informed and established evacuation routes are ready should a hurricane's arrival be eminent.