Heat wave forces cancellation of major Independence Day parades in Philadelphia and Washington
Record high temperatures prompted organizers to call off the planned Independence Day parades in Philadelphia and Washington, citing safety concerns for participants and spectators.
Record heat across the United States disrupted celebrations planned for the nation’s 250th birthday. In Philadelphia, where the Declaration of Independence was signed, organizers scrapped a large parade that was to feature more than 50 marching bands and about 20 floats after forecasts predicted a high of 104°F, with a heat index that could feel like 112°F.
In Washington, officials announced the cancellation of the annual Independence Day Parade scheduled for Saturday morning, after a forecast called for a high of 102°F and a heat index reaching 110°F. > "The decision was made after extensive and careful consideration of the safety of our participants, spectators and staff," the organizers said.
