August 2023 Miami News: Latest Updates and Happenings

by | Sep 6, 2023 | Miami News | 0 comments

Miami, Florida is a bustling city that is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. In August 2023, the city experienced a range of news events that captured the attention of both locals and visitors alike. From severe weather to crime and tax collection, there was a lot happening in Miami during this time.

One of the most significant news events that occurred in Miami during August 2023 was the arrival of Hurricane Idalia. The hurricane was forecast to become an extremely dangerous Category 4 storm, and it made landfall in Florida on August 30. News outlets such as CNN provided in-depth coverage of the storm, highlighting its potential impact on the city and the measures that residents and visitors could take to stay safe.

In addition to the hurricane, there were also reports of a new COVID-19 variant called BA.2.86. Health authorities and scientists were racing to study the new strain of the virus, which was said to be highly transmissible. Meanwhile, local news outlets such as WPLG Local 10 reported on a tragic incident in which a man’s body was pulled from a canal in Miami Gardens. These events served as a reminder of the importance of staying informed about local news and events, even when visiting a city as vibrant and exciting as Miami.

Weather Recap

Miami experienced some extreme weather conditions during August 2023. The city broke decades-old rainfall records, and the Miami and Fort Lauderdale areas were placed under a heat advisory. The Next Weather team continued to track Tropical Storm Idalia, which brought gusty rain to South Florida.

According to the Weather in Miami in August 2023 search results, the temperature ranged from 82°F to 91°F during the first week of August. The heat index was high, and the area was out under a heat advisory. Viewers could watch Lissette Gonzalez’s weathercasts on CBS4 News to stay updated on the weather conditions.

On August 28, 2023, CBS News Miami reported that Tropical Storm Idalia was expected to strengthen. The Next Weather team continued to track the storm, which brought gusty rain to South Florida. The team advised residents to stay alert and prepared for any possible impact.

Miami and Fort Lauderdale broke decades-old rainfall records on August 6, 2023, according to the Miami Herald. The worst of the rain might have been behind the city, but residents were still advised to stay alert and prepared for any possible flooding.

Overall, August 2023 was a challenging month for Miami’s weather. The city experienced extreme heat, gusty rain, and heavy flooding. However, residents were able to stay updated on the weather conditions through the Next Weather team and Lissette Gonzalez’s weathercasts.

Business Developments

Miami’s business sector continued to thrive in August 2023, with several notable developments taking place.

One of the most significant developments was Kaseya’s leasing of over 100,000 square feet of office space in the Brickell Financial District and downtown Miami. This move has contributed to a spike in the city’s tech sector, as Kaseya plans to expand its operations in Miami.

In addition to Kaseya’s expansion, the city saw several other businesses making moves. The 1,049-foot Waldorf Astoria Hotel & Residences is predicted to be the tallest residential tower south of New York and is expected to bring in significant revenue for the city’s hospitality industry.

The city also saw the restoration of the Carl Fisher Clubhouse, which had been abandoned for several years. The clubhouse, along with an adjoining annex, has been restored and is expected to attract more tourists to the area.

Furthermore, the city’s e-commerce industry continued to grow, with several new businesses opening up shop in Miami. This growth has been attributed to the city’s favorable tax policies and business-friendly environment.

Overall, Miami’s business sector looks set to continue its growth trajectory in the coming months, with several new developments expected to take place.

Cultural Events

Miami is known for its vibrant cultural scene, and August 2023 is no exception. From dance performances to art exhibitions, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

One of the highlights of the month is the opening of the season for Dimension Dance Theatre of Miami. Led by artists/directors Jennifer Kronenberg and Carlos Guerra, the company presents “Program I: Art in Motion.” The performance promises to be an evening of contemporary dance that explores the intersection of movement and visual art.

For those interested in visual arts, the city offers several exciting exhibitions. The Perez Art Museum Miami presents “Beyond the Horizon,” an exhibition that explores the relationship between humans and the natural world through works by contemporary artists. Visitors can also check out “Van Gogh – The Immersive Experience,” an interactive exhibition that brings the Dutch master’s paintings to life through digital projections and soundscapes.

Music lovers won’t be disappointed either. The month features performances by internationally renowned artists such as Beyoncé, Lionel Richie, and Earth, Wind & Fire. For those looking for something a little different, the Ballet Flamenco La Rosa presents “Caminos Flamencos,” a performance that showcases the passion and energy of traditional Spanish dance.

Overall, August 2023 promises to be a month filled with exciting cultural events in Miami. Visitors and locals alike can immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant arts scene and experience the best that the city has to offer.

Sports Highlights

Miami sports fans had plenty to cheer about in August 2023. Here are some of the top sports highlights from the month:

  • Inter Miami wins first trophy: On August 19th, Inter Miami, led by superstar Lionel Messi, won the Leagues Cup by defeating Nashville SC. This was the first trophy in club history for the team, which was founded in 2018. The victory was especially sweet for Messi, who had joined Inter Miami earlier in the summer and quickly became a fan favorite.
  • Dwyane Wade joins Miami Heat front office: On August 24th, it was announced that former Heat player Dwyane Wade would be joining the team’s front office as a special advisor. Wade, who retired from playing in 2019, had spent the majority of his career with the Heat and was beloved by fans. His new role will involve working with the team’s ownership and helping to develop its business strategy.
  • Miami Dolphins wrap up training camp: The Miami Dolphins concluded their training camp on August 31st, with head coach Mike McDaniel expressing optimism about the team’s prospects for the upcoming season. Some of the standout players during camp included rookie running back Javonte Williams and veteran linebacker Jerome Baker. The Dolphins will kick off their regular season on September 10th against the New England Patriots.

Overall, August 2023 was a great month for sports in Miami, with both established teams and up-and-coming ones making headlines. Fans can look forward to an exciting fall season as these teams continue to compete and strive for success.

Education News

In August 2023, Miami-Dade Schools announced plans to provide students with “safe places” at school, as stated by Superintendent Jose Dotres during the annual Opening of Schools event. This initiative aims to ensure that students feel secure and supported while attending school.

In other news, the Miami Herald reported that hundreds of people in Miami protested Governor DeSantis’ school standards, claiming that “black history is under attack.” This follows Florida Education Commissioner’s withdrawal from a town hall on Black History in education, which was scheduled to take place in Miami Gardens.

On a more positive note, Miami-Dade Schools is going green by purchasing 20 electric school buses. This move towards sustainability aligns with the district’s goal of reducing its carbon footprint.

Finally, the Miami Herald reported that later school times will go into effect in the 2026-2027 school year. This change requires public school districts and charter schools to adjust their schedules so that middle schools begin classes at or after 8 a.m., while high schools will start at or after 8:30 a.m. This change is expected to benefit students’ health and academic performance.

Overall, these developments in Miami’s education sector demonstrate a commitment to creating safe, sustainable, and supportive learning environments for students.

Health Updates

As of August 2023, COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations continue to rise in Miami-Dade County, Florida. The daily COVID-19 admissions in the county have increased by 9% in the past 14 days, with a total of 23 hospital admissions per 100,000 people. Health authorities are urging residents to take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the virus.

In addition to COVID-19, Miami Seaquarium provided a health update on their orca, Lolita, who is being prepared to eventually move to her home waters in the Pacific. Officials reported that Lolita’s health is stable and that she is responding well to treatment. The Miami Seaquarium is continuing to monitor her health closely and is committed to providing her with the best possible care.

Meanwhile, health experts are racing to study BA.2.86, a new strain of the COVID-19 virus that has been detected in various parts of the world. While there is still much to learn about the new variant, health authorities are advising residents to continue following recommended health guidelines, including wearing masks in public places and getting vaccinated.

As of August 2023, COVID-19 hospitalizations have increased by 22% in Ohio. Health officials are urging residents to take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the virus, including getting vaccinated and wearing masks in public places. The Ohio Department of Health is closely monitoring the situation and providing regular updates to the public.

Overall, health updates in Miami and Ohio continue to emphasize the importance of following recommended health guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other illnesses.

Real Estate Trends

Miami’s real estate market has been experiencing a significant surge in prices since August 2022, and this trend has continued into August 2023. According to Redfin, the median home-sale price in Miami rose by 17% from a year earlier during the four weeks ending August 27, 2023, making it the biggest increase the metro area has seen since October 2022. This rise in prices can be attributed to the low inventory in the market, which is driving up demand.

In addition, the median prices of single-family homes increased by 7.5% year-over-year, reaching $622,500 in June 2023. This streak of price appreciation spans an impressive 11.6 years, showcasing the enduring strength of the Miami real estate market. Wealth migration has also contributed to the economic boost of the housing market.

The housing prices by bedroom type for July 2023 compared to the previous year are as follows: the home price of 1 bedroom homes increased by 11.9%, 2 bedroom homes increased by 1.9%, 3 bedroom homes increased by 7%, 4 bedroom homes increased by 7.7%, and 5+ bedroom homes decreased by 5.7%. This data suggests that smaller homes are in higher demand, possibly due to the increasing number of young professionals and couples moving to Miami.

The National Association of Realtors predicts that the real estate market will continue to grow in 2023, with a projected increase in home sales and prices. However, it is important to note that the market could experience some fluctuations due to various factors such as interest rates, economic conditions, and political changes. Nonetheless, Miami’s real estate market remains a strong investment opportunity for those looking to invest in the housing market.

Political News

In August 2023, Miami was a hub of political activity. Miami Mayor Francis Suarez was the center of attention as he suspended his 2024 GOP campaign after missing a debate. This made him the first presidential candidate to do so. Suarez had been a candidate for the Republican presidential nomination, but he dropped out of the race. The Miami mayor had spoken at the Iowa State Fair in Des Moines on Aug. 11, but he decided to end his campaign.

Meanwhile, the Miami map battle continued to make headlines. The city won an appeal against a gerrymandering lawsuit, which had been filed against it. The case went all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court, but Miami emerged victorious. The lawsuit had been filed at a June 2, 2023 press conference outside the federal courthouse in downtown Miami.

Glenna Milberg, a journalist with Local 10 News, reported on the political developments in Miami. She covered the top stories and community issues. Milberg also co-hosted Local 10’s public affairs broadcast, “This Week.” She reported on the news that Suarez had dropped out of the presidential race and returned to his role as Miami mayor. Milberg also interviewed Suarez about his political ambitions and how he balanced work and family. Suarez spoke about how his family fueled his political career and how he hoped to make a difference in Miami.

Crime Reports

Miami, Florida has been experiencing a surge in crime, with several incidents reported daily. According to SpotCrime, on August 29, 2023, there were 23 crime reports in a single day. The crimes included assault, theft, and more.

Local residents are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities promptly to authorities. Below is a breakdown of the crimes reported on August 29, 2023, in Miami, Florida.

Crime Type Time Location
Assault 08:38 AM 1800 BLOCK OF NW SOUTH RIVER DR APT 805
Theft 02:05 PM 00 BLOCK OF NW 23RD ST
Theft 03:12 PM 1200 BLOCK OF SW 27TH AVE
Theft 03:25 PM 900 BLOCK OF NW 19TH AVE
Theft 04:01 PM 200 BLOCK OF NE 2ND AVE
Theft 04:15 PM 200 BLOCK OF NE 2ND AVE
Theft 04:20 PM 100 BLOCK OF NW 12TH ST
Theft 04:25 PM 200 BLOCK OF NE 2ND AVE
Theft 04:35 PM 200 BLOCK OF NE 2ND AVE
Theft 04:42 PM 200 BLOCK OF NE 2ND AVE
Theft 04:45 PM 200 BLOCK OF NE 2ND AVE
Theft 04:50 PM 200 BLOCK OF NE 2ND AVE
Theft 05:00 PM 200 BLOCK OF NE 2ND AVE
Vandalism 05:20 PM 200 BLOCK OF NE 2ND AVE
Theft 05:35 PM 200 BLOCK OF NE 2ND AVE
Theft 05:40 PM 200 BLOCK OF NE 2ND AVE
Theft 05:45 PM 200 BLOCK OF NE 2ND AVE
Theft 05:50 PM 200 BLOCK OF NE 2ND AVE
Theft 06:00 PM 200 BLOCK OF NE 2ND AVE
Theft 06:10 PM 200 BLOCK OF NE 2ND AVE
Theft 06:15 PM 200 BLOCK OF NE 2ND AVE
Theft 06:20 PM 200 BLOCK OF NE 2ND AVE
Theft 06:25 PM 200 BLOCK OF NE 2ND AVE

In addition to the above, there have been several other crimes reported in Miami, Florida. On August 30, 2023, detectives arrested Omar Iglesias Valdes in Miami after a street shooting incident in Brickell. On August 27, 2023, two teenage girls were murdered in Broward, prompting President Biden to denounce the racist shooting at a Florida dollar store.

The Miami Herald has been keeping up with the latest crime news and arrests in Miami, Florida. It is important for residents to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and the safety of those around them.

Transportation News

Miami’s transportation system has been a topic of concern for many years, with the Transit Alliance Miami giving the county an “F” grade for transit and mobility. However, recent developments suggest that there may be some improvements on the horizon.

One of the most significant developments is the announcement by Canadian low-cost air carrier Porter Airlines that it will launch its first service to Miami International Airport on Dec. 12, 2023. The airline will operate daily round-trip flights linking to Toronto Pearson International Airport, using 132-seat all-economy Embraer E 195-E2 aircraft that have no middle seats.

In addition to air travel, there are also plans for higher-speed rail projects in the US, with one of the proposed projects being a connection between Miami and Orlando. The project aims to provide a rare intercity train connection at a major airport terminal and make the trip from Miami to Orlando faster and more convenient.

Furthermore, the South Florida Regional Transportation Authority (SFRTA) has been working on last-mile subsidy vouchers for passengers. According to David Dech, the executive director of SFRTA, the subsidy vouchers could help encourage more people to use public transportation by making it easier and more affordable to get to their final destination.

While these developments are still in progress, they offer hope for Miami’s transportation system, which has long been a source of frustration for residents and visitors alike.

Environmental Updates

In August 2023, Miami experienced positive environmental news. Cool Roof France (CRF) is a company that uses discarded oyster shells to cut energy costs and keep buildings cool. The company is on a mission to reduce the carbon footprint of buildings by providing a sustainable alternative to traditional roofing materials. The company’s efforts have been successful, and they have received positive feedback from customers.

Additionally, the Miami Herald reported that the Florida panthers, alligators, and manatees are thriving in the state’s protected habitats. The state has been working to preserve these habitats and protect the animals that call them home. The state has also been working to reduce pollution and protect the environment.

Miami’s beaches have also been a focus of environmental efforts. The city has been working to reduce pollution and improve water quality. The city has implemented a program to reduce plastic waste on its beaches, which has been successful. The program has received positive feedback from residents and visitors alike.

Overall, Miami has made significant progress in protecting the environment and preserving its natural resources. The city’s efforts have been successful, and residents and visitors can enjoy the city’s beautiful beaches and wildlife.