Heatwave Forces Cancellation of Fourth of July Events in Washington
A dangerous heatwave disrupted Fourth of July celebrations across the central and eastern United States, with temperatures reaching 38°C (101°F) in Washington, D.C. The Great American State Fair on the National Mall, a centerpiece of President Donald Trump's 250th birthday celebrations, was temporarily closed. The National Park Service canceled its Independence Day Parade due to safety concerns, with heat index values projected to reach 46°C. The heatwave, caused by a high-pressure system known as a 'heat dome,' also strained power grids. PJM, the largest US power grid operator serving 67 million people, ordered emergency conservation measures to manage generator outages and surging air-conditioning demand.
Key facts
- Heatwave forced cancellation or postponement of parades, concerts, and fireworks displays in Washington and elsewhere.
- Great American State Fair on the National Mall was temporarily closed on Friday afternoon.
- Temperatures reached 38°C (101°F) in Washington.
- National Park Service canceled the Independence Day Parade scheduled for Saturday.
- Heat index values projected to reach 46°C.
- Heat dome caused record-breaking temperatures spreading from the Midwest.
- PJM, the largest US power grid operator, ordered emergency conservation measures.
- PJM serves 67 million people in mid-Atlantic, South, and Washington areas.
Entities
Institutions
- National Park Service
- PJM
Locations
- Washington
- United States
- National Mall
- Midwest
- mid-Atlantic
- South