Miami experiences record-breaking May heat, sparking summer fears

Miami's unprecedented May heat has experts concerned about the implications for the upcoming summer and hurricane season.

Patricia Mazzei reports for The New York Times.

In short:

• Miami experienced record-breaking heat, with a heat index reaching 112 degrees, 11 degrees higher than previous records.
• Meteorologists are worried about the impact of early extreme heat on the summer and hurricane season.
• South Florida's extreme weather has led to higher insurance premiums and the withdrawal of major insurers from the state.

Key quote:

"It's insane. Not only is it insane, it is also dangerous.”

— John Morales, meteorologist for ClimaData

Why this matters:

As Miami swelters under the oppressive May sun, the message from experts is clear: we must prepare for a hotter, more volatile future and take immediate steps to address the root causes of climate change.

Related EHN coverage:

• How youth can battle extreme heat in their communities
• Op-ed: We are undercounting heat-related deaths in the US
• Hot temperatures may be bad for brains, even young and healthy ones: Study