Severe thunderstorms sweeping across the country are casting a shadow over Fourth of July celebrations, potentially jeopardising plans for millions of people.
With 60 million Americans under severe thunderstorm warnings as forecasters are predicting a series of weather disturbances that could disrupt festivities nationwide.
In Los Angeles, several July 4th firework shows have been canceled due to newly adopted environmental rules restricting the use of explosives above bodies of water.
Severe storms, may be on the horizon across much of the South into the mid-Atlantic states, extending as north as Philadelphia. They have the potential to unleash harmful wind gusts exceeding 60 mph, along with the risk of large hail.
The greatest risk stretches from the eastern Rockies through the Central Plains, the upper Midwest, and the Upper Mississippi Valley. Consequently, major airports in Atlanta, Denver, Minneapolis, and Washington, D.C. are expected to experience impacts and potential delays due to the inclement weather.
However, there is some good news for those in New York City. Macy's 47th annual Fourth of July fireworks show, a spectacle eagerly anticipated by millions, is still on schedule.
The magnificent display will illuminate the New York City skyline beginning at 9:25 pm, with 60,000 shells launched from five stations along the East River.
The event, known as the biggest Independence Day celebration in New York City, will feature performances from renowned artists such as Ashanti, LL Cool J, and Bebe Rexha.
"This year's Macy's Fireworks celebration will be nothing short of showstopping,' said Will Coss, executive producer of Macy's 4th of July Fireworks.
"Millions of spectators come together every year to witness the spectacular performance along the East River and we are ready to deliver a high-flying, jaw-dropping fireworks display that will fill the night sky with color, light, shapes, and thunderous sound."
Elsewhere, not only thunderstorms but also scorching heat presents a challenge on this Independence Day.
Heat advisories have been extended across most of Florida, from Jacksonville to Miami, as temperatures soar to nearly 100 degrees accompanied by extremely high humidity levels.
Heat index readings in east central Florida are projected to surpass a sweltering 110 degrees.
Out West, excessive heat warnings are in effect in various parts of the Southwest, where temperatures are expected to reach a blazing 110 degrees in cities like Phoenix and Tucson.
