Heatwave and power outages disrupt US 250th independence celebrations
Extreme heat and widespread outages have forced cancellations and delays of events marking the United States' 250th birthday, while officials and performers continue with modified programs.
A time capsule containing a diamond, sand, poems and an AI prediction was buried near Independence Hall in Philadelphia as part of the 250th-anniversary commemorations, scheduled to be opened in 2276. The celebrations have been hampered by a severe heatwave that has left nearly 750,000 customers without electricity across the eastern United States, including over 350,000 homes in Michigan and 150,000 in New Jersey. Power company DTE attributed the outages to high winds and storm conditions.
Temperatures across the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast have topped 100°F (38°C), with humidity making it feel as high as 113°F (45°C). Record-breaking overnight lows have been reported, and forecasters warn of severe thunderstorms that could bring flash flooding, especially in New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Virginia.
The extreme heat forced the cancellation of Independence Day parades in Washington and Philadelphia and delayed entry to the National Mall. In Colorado, several fireworks displays were called off due to wildfire risk after recent fatal fires on the state border. Volunteers on the Mall have been handing out ice-cold water to keep attendees safe.
President Donald Trump, who returned to the White House early on July 4, is slated to deliver a late-night speech and host a series of events under the privately funded "Freedom 250" banner, including a concert series and a large fireworks display. Vice President JD Vance praised the nation’s history in a speech aboard the USS Kearsarge, while King Charles issued a statement highlighting the US-UK partnership.
Musicians such as Christina Aguilera, Mary J. Blige, and the Smashing Pumpkins are performing in major cities, though some acts withdrew from Trump-linked concerts after political backlash. Law-enforcement and emergency crews remain on alert as the heatwave continues to affect celebrations nationwide.
