Severe storms and record heat pose serious risks for the Fourth of July holiday, so don’t be surprised if the forecast forces a celebration backup plan.
While the record heat might be easing in the South, it’s building elsewhere. And the storm threat isn’t taking a holiday as it remains active through much of this week after recent deadly storms across the country.
Get your local forecast here
Here’s what to plan for today, and on the Fourth of July, region by region:
Mid-Atlantic and Northeast: Severe storms will threaten millions
Southeast: Heat indices climb as high as 110 degrees with storms possible
Some storms could be severe both today and on the Fourth of July during the afternoon and late evening hours, with damaging winds, large hail and an isolated tornado or two. Have a plan in place in case you need to seek shelter at a holiday celebration. Heat advisories are in effect from the North Florida coast to southern Virginia where temperatures will top out in the upper 90s. The heat index for these areas could reach a dangerous 110 degrees, so make sure to drink a lot of water and have a cool place to take breaks from the heat outdoors.
Midwest and Plains: Severe storms and the hottest temperatures of the year so far
The West: No storm threat, but dangerous heat
Severe storms and excessive rainfall forecast for much of the week
Severe storms and torrential rain won’t stop after the holiday. On Wednesday, the threat will cover roughly 90 million people. The main risk area will be across the Midwest and Southern Plains with a Level 2 out of 5 slight risk for places like Chicago, Indianapolis, Denver, Kansas City, Missouri and Tulsa, Oklahoma.
The Storm Prediction Center is also highlighting an area in the Plains on Thursday to watch out for the threat for severe weather, but it’s too early for the details. Make sure to check back here for any updates through the week.
Any of these storms will have the potential to produce torrential rainfall, so be prepared for flash flooding through the week.