Currently in NYC — August 9, 2023: Drier and less humid

The weather, currently

High pressure is doing its best to make sure we have a beautiful summer day on Wednesday. Mostly sunny skies, low humidy, and a high of 88°F would make it a great beach day if it weren’t for the sharks. A local park is safer so find a seat in the shade and soak up the warmth. Last year on this day it was 97°F so we’re in a much better spot than we were then. Enjoy the gorgeous day!

Bike Forecast:

9 out of 10

— Stacy Blundell

What you need to know, currently.

Florida has been the epicenter of a major marine heat wave that has strengthened all summer. Tuesday was the peak of the heat in Miami so far,

An excessive heat warning is in effect for nearly all of South Florida, with parts of the region under that highest-level heat warning for the first time ever. Heat stress is reaching record levels, with the Miami metro area facing more than 100 hours of excessive heat index so far this summer, more than double the second-worst year, according to Miami-based meteorologist Brian McNoldy. On Tuesday, the Miami heat index peaked at 113°F (45°C) — the hottest reading in city history.

Miami is the only city in the world with a Chief Heat Officer, and has worked diligently to set local heat standards to give workers frequently exposed to outdoors protections from heat-related illness and injury even as similar rules are fought by the Florida Chamber of Commerce and state officials.

For daily updates on Miami weather and climate, subscribe to Currently’s Miami newsletter, led by meteorologist John Morales.

—Eric Holthaus

What you can do, currently.

Currently is now a member of the Covering Climate Now partnership, a resource-sharing initiative devoted to making sure the biggest story in human history is told in ways that resonate with everyone.

Take a look at the list of our new partners and maybe find a new favorite podcast or website to support!