The heat wave in the U.S. disrupted Independence Day celebrations
A severe heat wave has swept across the central and eastern states of the U.S., forcing authorities to cancel or postpone dozens of events marking the 250th anniversary of the country's independence.
The situation is most severe in Washington, D.C., New York, Philadelphia, Boston, and a number of other cities.
In the U.S. capital, due to temperatures reaching 38°C, the Great American State Fair on the National Mall—one of the main events of the country’s anniversary celebrations—was temporarily closed. The traditional Independence Day parade was also canceled for safety reasons.
According to the U.S. National Weather Service, more than 185 million Americans—more than half the country’s population—are in an area affected by dangerous heat. In some regions, the heat index could reach +46°C, and new temperature records are forecast for certain cities.
The extreme heat has placed additional strain on the country’s power grid. PJM, the largest U.S. power grid operator, has urged citizens to conserve electricity due to record-high air conditioner usage. In New York, about 17,000 customers were left without power. In addition, the high temperatures caused the adhesive in the asphalt to soften, causing pedestrians’ shoes to stick to the road surface in some places.
Festive events were canceled or postponed across the U.S. East Coast. In Philadelphia, the main parade was canceled; in New Jersey, the traditional holiday parade was called off; in upstate New York, a concert and fireworks display were canceled; and in Boston, the opening of the festival grounds was delayed by several hours.
Meteorologists and officials are advising Americans to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, drink water regularly, and watch closely for symptoms of heatstroke.
On July 4, 2026, the United States will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. It was on this day in 1776 that the U.S. Declaration of Independence was adopted, marking the founding of the American nation and becoming one of the world’s most important historical documents.
This was reported by Reuters.
On July 4, the United States of America celebrates Independence Day—one of the country’s most important national holidays. It was on this day in 1776 that the Declaration of Independence was adopted, proclaiming the creation of a new nation and its separation from Great Britain. For Americans, this date symbolizes freedom, democracy, and national unity.
Abnormally high temperatures in late June caused a sharp rise in electricity prices on European energy exchanges. Meteorologists predict that a new heat wave in July could keep prices high.
