Florida Reported Rising Summer Temperatures Through 2022
University of Florida researchers found an uptick in hot days and temperatures across the state over several decades.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Severe Weather
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University of Florida researchers reported an increase in average summer temperatures and hot days across Florida based on data collected between 1959 and 2022. This retrospective study noted a steady climb in heat metrics and identified record-breaking summers in major cities.
Why it matters
Global warming continues to drive the increase in high temperatures and the frequency of hot days in Florida. A lack of tropical moisture has further exacerbated these conditions, leading to persistent drought and wildfires in parts of South Florida.
Researchers analyzed 28 meteorological stations to track an average maximum temperature increase of 0.12 degrees Celsius per decade. Florida is projected to see 70 hot days annually by 2050, up from current trends.
The players
University of Florida
This public research university conducted the multi-decadal study analyzing temperature trends across the state.
NWS Miami-South Florida
This National Weather Service office monitors regional atmospheric data and identifies local trends compared to the broader Caribbean.
The details
The study spanned meteorological stations from Pensacola to Key West, revealing that Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach experienced their hottest summers on record, while Miami tied its 2023 record. Southern Everglades saw extreme drought, with lightning-triggered wildfires lasting between one week and a month.
Timeline
The study analyzed data from 1959 through 2022.
On September 1, 2026, the NWS Miami-South Florida office issued a relevant weather summary.
Seasonal Patterns
These findings follow a pattern set by the National Weather Service in tracking how regional atmospheric shifts impact public safety. The observed heat increase and moisture deficits mirror broader trends monitored across the Caribbean region.
Residents should prepare for the projected increase to 70 hot days annually by 2050 by monitoring local heat advisories and implementing cooling strategies. During drought periods, observe all local restrictions on open burning to reduce the risk of wildfires in the area.
The takeaway
The data confirms a long-term trend of rising heat across the state that extends beyond seasonal variability. Residents can implement energy-efficient home cooling measures to mitigate the personal impact of these increasing annual hot day projections.
Further reading
For more information on regional climate trends, visit the Severe Weather section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Sarasota Herald-Tribune.
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