The U.S. Gears Up To Celebrate The 4th Of July Weekend. The Extreme Heatwave Could Interfere.
Large swaths of U.S. are going through a period of extreme heat, potentially threatening some 4th of July celebrations and putting pressure on the power grid.
The National Weather Service noted that temperatures of up to 105 degrees Farenheit (more than 40 degrees Celsius) could be seen in central and eastern U.S, potentially marking daily, monthly or all-time records.
This situation can increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, especially for vulnerable populations and those who can’t get enough cooling.
CNBC noted that power grids in the areas are under significant strain. Wholesale spot electricity prices jumped almost 250% in New England and more than 100% in New York City on Thursday, according to data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration. They also rose by more than 45% in the Midwest and the Mid-Atlantic.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani urged residents to set air conditioning to 78 degrees Farenheit and take other precautions to avoid putting additional strain to the grid.
“My recommendation to all New Yorkers is to stay inside and stay cool, and if you happen to be getting married at Madison Square Garden, you will be staying inside and you will be staying cool, and I think it is a good example to set to the city at large,” he told press, in reference to the wedding of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, which is reportedly taking place in Madison Square Garden.
Rail authorities have also warned there could be delays during the weekend, with Amtrak noting that trains could be operating at reduced speeds due to the extreme temperatures. Delta airlines also issued a service notice saying it will waive change fees for journeys through New York’s LaGuardia Airport due to the hot weather.
The dangerous heatwave forecast is expected to last several days and is set to affect weather conditions in more than two dozen states.
Heat domes are weather patterns in which heat and humidity hovers in an area for a few days, causing extreme discomfort.
President Donald Trump is set to travel to South Dakota to deliver a speech and watch fireworks at Mount Rushmore. He will also give a speech at the National Mall in Washington before another fireworks show on Saturday. In New York City there will be a ball drop in Times Square at midnight, when the 4th of July officially begins.
