Dangerous heat to stretch from central U.S. to Northeast, June 30-July 1
Traveling this weekend ahead of the Fourth of July holiday? Here’s what you need to know about the weather, from departure to destination:
Fireworks in Washington, D.C., on July Fourth, with the Washington Monument in the foreground. (Image credit: istock)
It’s going to be a hot one
Hot weather is forecast across the U.S. Northeast, and temperatures will soar well into the 90s from the lower Great Lakes to New England this weekend (June 30–July 1), with some locations possibly approaching 100 degrees F. New daily high-temperature records could be set across New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and into New England. High humidity will make temperatures feel even hotter, and warm overnight temperatures will provide little relief.
If you are seeking a break from the heat and humidity, head to the West: Coastal Southern California, the Pacific Northwest and inland across the Northern Rockies will see highs in the 70s. The chance for wildfires will persist over portions of Arizona, Utah and Nevada through the weekend.
So far, the extended outlook through Wednesday, July 4, calls for a summertime weather pattern across much of the nation. (At the link, slide the arrow in the upper right slider to the date of your choosing.) Check this story next week for an updated forecast.
Storms and showers for Saturday, Sunday
Thunderstorms and locally heavy rainfall could dampen travel and picnic plans across portions of the Central Plains, Upper Midwest and Southeast. Some of these areas recently experienced heavy rainfall, making localized flooding possible. Late day and evening thunderstorms are forecast across the South, in Florida, Alabama, Mississippi and Georgia.
Beyond the weekend
To stay on top of latest weather conditions for your location, visit www.weather.gov and enter the Zip Code for a customized forecast.
Will the rain odds be in your favor for fireworks? Take a look at the historical climate records for July Fourth to see your chance for clear fireworks viewing.
Be healthy and safe
Check out some important summer safety tips for extreme heat, sun and beach hazards, including how to survive a rip current.
NOAA wishes everyone a peaceful and relaxing Independence Day!
