If you’ve been outside at all this summer, you’ve probably noticed that the heat seems to be more intense than years prior. It’s not just your memory playing tricks on you, data confirms that this phenomenon is very real. Here in South Floria, Extreme Heat Warnings have become the norm.    

Due to rising temperatures, especially on a local level, the National Weather Service has implemented new criteria for what temperatures necessitate a Heat Advisory and/or Extreme Heat Warning. New studies prove that exposure to excessive heat becomes unhealthy at lower temperatures than previously assumed (National Weather Service). Heat advisories, not quite as urgent as Extreme Heat Warnings, will now be issued after temperatures have remained at 105 degrees for over two hours (previously 108). Extreme Heat Warnings will be issued after temperatures reach 110 degrees, previously 113. 

On the average iPhone, the weather app will alert you with these notices, which have become alarmingly more frequent as the summer months progress. Sophia Becceril, a Senior, has noticed these warnings and she admits to having some concerns. “I just feel like if we’re being told that we’re putting our lives at risk just by going outside, we’ve definitely reached a point where there is a serious problem. Years ago my mom would let me play outside during the summer for hours. Now, doing any kind of outdoor activity feels practically dangerous. My little brother can’t play outside nearly as much as I could when I was his age.”

These warnings have become common across counties such as Broward, Miami-Dade, and more. Climate activists assure that these new developments are only the beginning of disastrous conditions they claim they’ve predicted for years. For now, state officials urge South Florida residents to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and try to make it indoors when they can.