South Florida Weather Radar
South Florida Live Weather
South Florida Live Weather Radar
South Florida Hourly Weather Forecast
South Florida 7-Day Weather Forecast
South Florida Weather Overview
South florida weather radar covers the tri-county metro of Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach — the southernmost major metro in the continental United States. NWS WFO MFL (Miami) provides Doppler coverage for this tropical climate zone, where warm Atlantic air and Gulf Stream influence fuel intense storms year-round. Miami averages 61.9 inches of annual rainfall, and the region logs roughly 80 thunderstorm days per year — among the highest in the nation.
Hurricane season puts south florida weather radar to its hardest test. Three catastrophic storms struck in recent decades. Hurricane Andrew (1992) hit Homestead as a Category 5 with 175 mph winds, destroying 63,000+ homes and causing $27.3 billion in damage. Hurricane Wilma (2005) crossed the peninsula with 120 mph winds, leaving millions without power for weeks. Hurricane Irma (2017) tracked through the Keys and Miami as a Category 2, sending unprecedented storm surge into Biscayne Bay. Between tropical systems, sea-breeze thunderstorms build daily from May through October along the Everglades corridor.
Flash flooding and extreme heat add year-round risk. Dense development in Miami-Dade and Broward leaves little runoff room — moderate rain floods I-95 and US-1 fast. Summer heat indices regularly exceed 100°F. South florida weather radar updates every 10 minutes via RainViewer, so you can check south florida radar before heading to Fort Lauderdale Beach or Biscayne Bay. When a storm cell moves onshore fast, south florida weather radar gives you the 20-minute lead time to act.
South Florida Weather Risks & Safety
Hurricane & Tropical Storm Risk
Tropical cyclones can affect South Florida when their tracks bring strong winds and heavy rain into the area. Seasonal timing and peak activity vary by ocean basin, so follow official tropical weather outlooks and local advisories. On the radar, you can track the storm's center, rain bands, and changes in precipitation as it approaches. Keep your emergency plan current and follow local guidance when a tropical storm or hurricane threatens South Florida.
Flooding & Flash Flood Risk
Flooding can develop quickly in South Florida when slow-moving thunderstorms produce intense rain. Low-lying areas and roads with poor drainage can become dangerous while rain is still falling. Check the radar to see where the heaviest rain is falling and which areas to avoid. The standing rule: turn around, don't drown. Never drive through flooded roads, even if they look shallow.
Severe Thunderstorm Risk
Thunderstorms near South Florida may bring lightning, strong winds, hail, or heavy rain. Radar helps track precipitation position and movement, but it does not by itself confirm lightning at a location or the wind and hail conditions on the ground. Read current NWS forecasts, watches, and warnings for the expected hazards and timing. If a warning covers your location, follow its shelter instructions.
Extreme Heat Risk
When extreme heat is forecast for South Florida, use the temperature forecast and official NWS heat alerts to plan time outdoors. Rain radar does not measure air temperature or heat exposure, and a lack of precipitation does not establish that skies are clear or that heat is increasing. Check the forecast for the hours you will be outside, allow for access to shade or cooling, and follow local heat guidance.
How to Use South Florida Weather Radar
Check Current Conditions
View the real-time weather bar at the top of the South Florida radar page — it shows temperature, humidity, wind speed, and current conditions for the Miami metro area at a glance.
Watch the Radar Map
The radar map shows precipitation moving across Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties. Toggle between precipitation and cloud views, then hit play on the animation to see where storms are moving and how fast they're tracking toward the coast.
Monitor Hourly and 7-Day Forecasts
Scroll down to the hourly forecast to spot incoming rain bands or afternoon thunderstorm timing. Check the 7-day outlook for any tropical systems developing in the Atlantic or Gulf — South Florida's hurricane season runs June 1 through November 30.
Act on Storm Alerts
When the radar shows a storm cell moving onshore from the Atlantic toward Fort Lauderdale Beach or Biscayne Bay, you have roughly 10-20 minutes before it arrives. Radar updates every 10 minutes — use that window to find shelter, delay a beach trip, or pull off I-95.
Who Benefits from South Florida Weather Radar
Commuters & Drivers
Drivers on I-95, I-595, and the Florida Turnpike — check radar before leaving to spot sudden afternoon downpours and flooded on-ramps.
Outdoor Enthusiasts
Beachgoers at Fort Lauderdale Beach and Biscayne Bay — see afternoon storm cells forming over the Everglades 20 minutes before they hit.
Event Planners & Families
Outdoor events at Hard Rock Stadium and Marlins Park — radar shows exactly when afternoon thunderstorms will interrupt South Florida gatherings.
Outdoor Workers
Construction crews and port workers across Miami-Dade and Broward — check south florida radar before outdoor shifts; lightning risk is high from May through October.