NPR News: 07-03-2026 4PM EDT

Louise Schiavone· Host0:01

Live from NPR News in Washington, I'm Louise Schiavone. Fourth of July celebrations in some parts of the country are being canceled amid record-breaking temperatures. NPR's Cat Lonestar reports that the National Weather Service has issued extreme heat warnings in twenty-three states.

Cat Lonestar0:17

The high temperatures are largely due to a heat dome looming over the northeastern US, stretching from southern Maine to the Mid-Atlantic and as far west as Missouri. Multiple governors issued warnings for residents to be mindful of the heat while celebrating, telling people to stay hydrated and take air-conditioned breaks. Philadelphia canceled its Fourth of July parade due to heat concerns. The event was supposed to be one of the largest in the country. Several other cities also canceled their celebrations, including some in the DC area. But official events in Washington, including a massive fireworks display on the Fourth, are still proceeding as planned. Cat Lonestar, NPR News.

Louise Schiavone· Host0:52

Record dry conditions in many areas have elevated fire risks this year, and that is going to mean restrictions on fireworks displays across the nation. Utah has banned personal fireworks due to extreme wildfire risk. In Colorado, where several large wildfires continue to burn, there are also restrictions. Stina Seeg from Colorado Public Radio has more.

Stina Seeg1:15

The Gold Mountain fires forced evacuations outside the picturesque mountain town of Ouray. Evacuated local Belinda Willis was horrified to see people lighting a bonfire on a recent night and urges everyone to celebrate the Fourth