Melbourne reached 93 degrees on Thursday, shattering its previous temperature record of 91 degrees set in 1980. The National Weather Service in Melbourne confirmed the new mark, which was part of a broader heatwave across central Florida. Daytona Beach hit 97 degrees, breaking its 1952 record of 93, while Sanford also reached 97 degrees, eclipsing its 2009 high of 94. Leesburg tied its 1984 record of 94 degrees, and other areas like Orlando (95 degrees), Vero Beach (92 degrees), and Fort Pierce (93 degrees) saw temperatures near but not exceeding their records.
The extreme heat came as a surprise for this time of year. Normally, May temperatures in Melbourne average around 82 degrees. Residents across the region reported seeking shade and using air conditioning more frequently. Local businesses in Melbourne’s downtown area reported increased sales of cold drinks and ice.
National Weather Service officials said a frontal boundary moving into central Florida on Friday will bring slightly cooler conditions. Highs are expected to drop into the mid-80s, but the agency warned that heat-related illnesses remain a risk. Officials urged residents to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged outdoor activity during peak heat hours, and check on vulnerable neighbors.
The heatwave follows a dry January and February that left soil moisture levels below normal. Meteorologists say the early-May warmth is part of a larger pattern of above-average temperatures across the southeastern U.S. this spring. No major weather disruptions are expected this weekend, but the National Weather Service will continue monitoring conditions.