National Weather Service United States Department of Commerce

Dangerous, Heat Wave Persists in the Eastern U.S.; Severe Weather Expected in the Central Plains and Mid-Atlantic

A prolonged, dangerous heat wave will persist through the Independence Day weekend across the Ohio Valley, Mid-South, and East Coast. Severe thunderstorms are expected to produce damaging wind gusts from the Upper Ohio Valley into the Mid Atlantic, and across the central Great Plains this afternoon and evening. Large hail and heavy rain is also possible across the Great Plains. Read More >

Click a location below for detailed forecast.

Last Map Update: Sat, Jul 4, 2026 at 4:32:26 am PDT

The Fourth of July falls during the driest part of the year. Grasses and brush are fully cured, and low humidity dries them out even further. Under these conditions, a single spark can grow into a fast-moving fire within minutes. Wind is the multiplier. Gusts push flames into fresh fuel and carry embers ahead of the fire, starting new spot fires downwind. 🎆 Fireworks rules vary by city, county, and agency, and many areas ban them entirely. Check with your local fire department or county authorities. 🔗 weather.gov/hanford
We have extended the Lake Wind Advisory for the San Luis Reservoir and along Highway 152 through 11 PM on July 4. Sustained winds of up to 10-15 mph and gusts up to 30 mph are expected. Gusts this high are capable of producing whitecap waves dangerous to small watercraft and are dangerous to drivers, particularly those in high-profile vehicles. Exercise caution if recreating at San Luis Reservoir or driving in the area.
50 to 60 percent chance of the hottest temperatures of the summer July 10th through the 16th for the entire area.

 

Text Product Selector (Selected product opens in current window)