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.

Key Headlines

Here's how the news is developing.
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Jul 04, 2026, 10:01 PM GMT

AccuWeather Alert: Severe Thunderstorm Watch expands to NYC

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch has expanded to New York City until 11 p.m.

The storms could include heavy downpours, damaging winds and lightning.

Jeff Smith has an update on a severe thunderstorm watch issued for much of the Tri-State area.
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Jul 04, 2026, 8:27 PM GMT

AccuWeather Alert: Severe Thunderstorm Watch issued for most of NJ, parts of Hudson Valley

Jul 04, 2026, 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."

Jul 04, 2026, 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.