A dangerous heatwave is forecast to affect much of the central and eastern United States starting Tuesday and continuing through the July 4 holiday weekend, as the country marks the 250th anniversary of independence and holds knockout-stage World Cup matches. The National Weather Service warns that temperatures are expected to rise above 100°F (38°C), with high humidity pushing heat index values even higher. Forecasters also note limited overnight cooling, with many areas expected to see overnight lows in the mid- to upper-70s, which may increase the risk of heat-related illness.
Public alerts in Washington, where organisers say fireworks for the 250th anniversary will be among the largest in history, urge people to drink water frequently, reduce time outside during afternoon hours, and check on neighbours, particularly those most vulnerable to extreme heat.
Both outlets also link the broader pattern of more frequent, longer-lasting, and more intense heatwaves to climate change, citing similar recent impacts in other regions, including Europe.
