A dangerous heat wave put a damper on Fourth of July celebrations on Friday, as scorching temperatures thrash the eastern United States.
“Across the country, multiple daily temperature records are expected today and on Independence Day, with some consecutive day, monthly and all-time records possible,” the National Weather Service said.
The extreme heat index can reach 115 °F (46 °C) in some parts of the country.
The heat has arrived as America prepares to celebrate the 250th anniversary of its independence from Great Britain on Saturday.
Heat disrupts America’s 250th birthday celebrations
Dozens of parades, concerts and fireworks displays have been canceled or postponed due to the extreme temperatures.
Great American State Fair The National Mall in Washington, D.C. — the major event marking President Donald Trump’s 250th birthday — was temporarily closed Friday afternoon as temperatures reached 101 degrees Fahrenheit.
Event cancellations have been reported in at least seven states.
In Philadelphia, the Independence Day Salute Parade was canceled after temperatures reached 103 degrees Fahrenheit on Thursday, a record high since 1901.
Authorities have warned that the heat wave could be deadly, urging those celebrating the Fourth of July weekend outdoors to seek shade, drink water and be alert for signs of heat-related illness.
Edited by: Rana Taha
Don’t let algorithms hide news. If you rely on our team for reliable reporting, please take a moment Choose us as your preferred source on Google by clicking here And press the “Star” or “Favorite” button, so you always see our verified news first.