An extreme heat warning is in effect through Saturday for much of the Tri-State area
NEW YORK (WABC) -- Strong evening thunderstorms could wreak havoc on July 4th fireworks celebrations across the Tri-State area on the final day of a dangerous heat wave.
A Severe Thunderstorm Warning has been issued for portions New York City, the Hudson Valley, and northern New Jersey. A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is also in effect for New York City, New Jersey and portions of the Hudson Valley. Any storm has the potential to produce damaging winds, downpours and even some hail.
The timing of the storms could coincide just as fireworks kick off across the region, including New York City, which could see storms move in during the 9 p.m. and 10 p.m. hour.
The Macy's Fourth July Fireworks start time was moved up from 9:25 p.m. 9:02 p.m. as a result of the incoming storms.
The silver lining is that the storms will finally break the four-day heat wave, as temperatures fall back into the 80s on Sunday with a chance for showers developing later in the day.
More widespread showers and thunderstorms are expected Sunday night into Monday, bringing the most significant relief from the oppressive heat and humidity.
Anyone heading outdoors for holiday festivities should stay hydrated, monitor air quality conditions, and keep an eye on the weather later Saturday as storms may become heavy and dangerous in some locations.
Stick with Eyewitness News for the latest forecast and weather alerts.
NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani updated New Yorkers ahead of an incoming stretch of extreme heat on Tuesday afternoon.
"These are extremely dangerous conditions and they will affect every part of our city," he said.''
The MonmouthNJ 250: The Concert at ParkStage, scheduled for Friday, July 3, featuring Little Steven and the Disciples of Soul, has been rescheduled for Friday, July 17 at 5 p.m.
Officials say postponing the show is in the best interest for the public safety of the audience.
"The safety of concertgoers, County and Basie employees, and the artists performing is our highest priority," said Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone. "With an unprecedented heat wave forecast for the holiday weekend, the County, the Count Basie Center for the Arts, and Stevie Van Zandt have, out of an abundance of caution, postponed MonmouthNJ 250: The Concert from July 3 to July 17. We remain committed to providing a safe, enjoyable experience for everyone who attends ParkStage."
New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James V. McDonald says the next five days will be the most significant heat health risk that he's seen in his time as the commissioner.
He's urging people to carry water, know where air conditioning is, and to watch out for signs of heat injury.
Newark is activating a Code Red from 8 a.m. Wednesday through 8 a.m. Sunday as temperatures are expected to reach over 100 degrees.
Residents who encounter an unsheltered individual in need of non-emergency assistance are encouraged to text "Path Home" to 855-11. Messages are immediately relayed to homeless street outreach teams, who will locate the individual and connect them with available services and resources.
For additional information regarding sheltering services, contact the drop-in centers listed below or the Office of Homeless Services at (973) 877-9482, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Bridges Outreach, INC and Project Connect
35 Halsey Street
Newark, NJ
(973) 723-2307
Better Life
101 14th Avenue
Newark, NJ
(862) 229-1400 ext. 6123
NJCRI -Crossroads
393 Central Avenue
Newark, NJ
(973) 483-3444
Newark Emergency Services - Drop in Center
982 Broad Street
Newark, NJ
(973) 639-2100
