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What to expect for the long holiday weekend

July 3, 2024 - As you make final preparations for your Independence Day holiday, be sure to keep an eye on your local fireworks public domainforecast. Read on to find out where temperatures will sizzle, and where storms could dominate Independence Day skies.

Heat surges into the East and remains in the West

The brief break from the heat in the Eastern U.S. is over. High temperatures are expected to be 5-10 degrees above average on Wednesday, July 3 in the Ohio River Valley and through the western Appalachians. Heat and humidity push back into New England through the deep South on Thursday, remaining through the holiday weekend. 

In California and portions of the Southwest, triple-digit temperatures are the dominant features throughout the  week. Closer to the Four Corners region, which saw some monsoonal moisture to start the week, our forecasters expect fewer storms and a return to seasonable temperatures as the holiday weekend progresses.

More rain in the Heartland

Rain could dampen Fourth of July cookouts through the nation’s midsection. The Ohio River Valley and the Northern Plains, in particular, are likely to see stormy skies on Thursday. Waterways in the Midwest, which have already overtopped their banks, are likely to receive even more water by the end of the week. Flood warnings remain in effect for parts of the Mississippi River and many of its tributaries in the region. 

Watching the tropics closely

Tropical activity picked up quickly in late June, and forecasters at the National Hurricane Center are closely monitoring the Atlantic Basin. Hurricane Beryl — the earliest Category 5 hurricane on record — is expected to bring heavy rain and destructive winds to northwest Caribbean islands on Wednesday before advancing westward toward Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. Weakened wind and rain from Beryl could arrive in southern Texas by Sunday.

Rip currents could pose a danger

Everyone who plans to spend time at the beach should be aware of their local beach hazards and rip current forecasts. Remember to only swim at guarded beaches, and pay attention to posted signage about any water hazards. Get the latest statistics, videos and resources on rip currents and other water hazards in our new feature story.

Stay Weather-Ready this Fourth of July weekend!

Be sure to check out these important summer safety tips and resources before heading outside, and always remember — when thunder roars, go indoors. Follow these additional tips all year: