Severe storms impacting July 4th fireworks, festivities on final day of extreme heat

An extreme heat warning is in effect through Saturday for much of the Tri-State area

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Last updated: Sunday, July 5, 2026 1:08AM GMT
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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.

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Jul 04, 2026, 2:59 AM GMT

NJ Transit train service severely disrupted due to damage from strong storms

Several NJ Transit train lines have been suspended or delayed due to damage from severe storms that moved through the state on Friday night.

Latest updates on train, rail service:

Due to damage from the severe storms that went through the state, train service is suspended on Morris and Essex, Gladstone Branch, Raritan Valley, and North Jersey Coast Lines. Crews have been deployed to assess and repair damage to the infrastructure. Service has resumed on Main, Bergen County, Port Jervis, Pascack Valley lines and Hoboken with residual delays. NJ TRANSIT rail tickets and passes are being cross honored on NJ TRANSIT and private carrier buses and PATH at Newark Penn Station, Hoboken Terminal, and 33rd Street, New York. Customers should visit http://njtransit.com/ABC for available alternate service information.

River Line service is suspended in both directions between Roebling and Cass Street Stations due to weather-related downed trees on the tracks near Roebling Station. Substitute bus service is being provided.

Northeast Corridor Line rail service is subject to up to 1-hour delays in both directions due to a disabled train near Metuchen. Eastbound trains are track-level boarding and deboarding at New Brunswick, Edison, and Metuchen. Stair use is required to access trains. Customers unable to use stairs should follow crew instructions or use stations with accessible services. Customers should visit njtransit.com/ABC for available alternate service information.

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Jul 04, 2026, 12:47 AM GMT

NJ Gov. Sherrill warns residents of severe weather, dangerous travel conditions

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Jul 04, 2026, 1:08 AM GMT

Extremely dangerous storms hit NYC, NJ

Extremely dangerous storms with 70-80 mph wind gusts raced from northern New Jersey into the New York City area on Friday night.

Jeff Smith has an update on an AccuWeather Alert for extremely dangerous storms with 70-80mph wind gusts racing from northern New Jersey into the New York City area.

There are already many reports of damage coming in from northern New Jersey.

Jul 03, 2026, 10:18 PM GMT

Con Edison distributes dry ice to residents in Queens

Con Edison will be distributing dry ice to residents in Queens who have lost power due to the heat wave.

The company will also have a mobile information center at 110-00 Rockaway Blvd at Resorts World Casino Lot C from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., or until supplies run out. Residents can access the location from Aqueduct Road.

For additional information or questions, customers can call ConEd at 1-800-75-CONED (1-800-752-6633) or visit www.coned.com.