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Severe storms threaten July 4th fireworks on final day of extreme heat | Live updates
An extreme heat warning is in effect through Saturday for much of the Tri-State area
Last updated: Saturday, July 4, 2026 11:11PM GMT
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 Watch has been issued for New York City, most of New Jersey and portions of the Hudson Valley until 11 p.m., with any storm having 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 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.
Key Headlines
- Jun 29, 2026, 6:22 PM GMT
- Jun 29, 2026, 6:22 PM GMT
Here's how the news is developing.
4:30 PM GMT
Plainfield cancels Fourth of July parade due to storm damage
Officials with the City of Plainfield announced that Saturday's parade was canceled due to storm damage and power outages.
"Many homes remain without power, and a large amount of trees and debris still need to be cleared from roadways, sidewalks, and public areas. Public Safety and Department of Public Works personnel are currently deployed and will continue working through the storm's aftermath, including cleanup and response efforts, tomorrow morning.
Out of an abundance of caution and to allow city personnel to focus on public safety and storm recovery operations, the Fourth of July Parade scheduled for Saturday, July 4th, has been canceled.
At this time, the Fourth of July concert and fireworks are still scheduled to proceed as planned. The City will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates if any additional changes occur."
3:01 PM GMT
Con Ed distributing dry ice in Queens on 4th of July
Con Edison will distribute dry ice Saturday in Queens to customers who have lost power due to the heat wave.
Those impacted by the power outage should head to:
110-00 Rockaway Blvd at Resorts World Casino Lot C, which can be accessed from Aqueduct Road. Distribution will be from 10:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. or as needed.
ByEyewitness News
10:38 AM GMT
NJ Transit delays continue Saturday morning after severe storms damage rail lines
NJ Transit riders are continuing to experience major service disruptions Saturday morning as crews work to repair infrastructure damaged by severe storms that swept through the state Friday night.
According to NJ Transit, service remains suspended on the Morris & Essex Line, Gladstone Branch, Raritan Valley Line and North Jersey Coast Line due to storm-related damage.
Officials said repair crews remain on scene assessing and repairing damaged infrastructure. The Morris & Essex Line and North Jersey Coast Line are expected to remain suspended through Saturday morning while repairs continue.
Service has resumed on the Main, Bergen County, Port Jervis, Pascack Valley and Hoboken lines, though riders should expect residual delays.
Meanwhile, Northeast Corridor Line service is operating on or close to schedule after an earlier disabled train near Metuchen. NJ Transit said trains may still experience residual delays of up to 30 minutes in both directions. Eastbound trains are no longer using track-level boarding at New Brunswick, Edison and Metuchen.
NJ Transit is honoring rail tickets and passes on NJ Transit and private carrier buses, as well as PATH service at Newark Penn Station, Hoboken Terminal and 33rd Street in New York.
Customers are encouraged to check NJ Transit for the latest service updates and alternate travel options before heading out.
