South Florida Climate

South Florida is Sunshine State

The climate has always been one of Florida’s most important natural resources and is reflected in its official nickname, the “Sunshine State.” South Florida has a tropical climate and is known around the world for its balmy weather. Summers throughout the state are long, warm, and fairly humid with a defined rainy season from June through September. Winters are mild with periodic cool spells due to occasional cold fronts that push through. Winter temperatures in South Florida range from daytime highs of 64 to 77º Fahrenheit to lows of around 40º Fahrenheit. Summer temperatures are normally in the range of the low 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit throughout any 24-hour period. Coastal areas in all regions of Florida average slightly warmer temperatures in winter and cooler ones in summer compared to the inland parts of the state.

The primary factors affecting the state’s climate are its latitude and the numerous inland lakes. Proximity to the currents of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico also plays an important role. Easterly winds off the warm waters of the Gulf Stream running through the Florida Straits keep temperatures moderate across the southern peninsula year round.