Heat and severe storms damper July Fourth celebrations, leave thousands without power
While millions of Americans across the Northeast experienced record-setting temperatures, thunderstorms in the Midwest downed trees, ruptured power lines and made transportation treacherous.
Updated on: July 4, 2026 / 7:55 PM EDT / CBS/AP
Deadly storms and a heat wave marred America's 250th birthday for swathes of the United States, leaving hundreds of thousands of utility customers without power.
In Washington, D.C., thunderstorms forced the temporary evacuation of thousands of people from the National Mall, which is hosting the Freedom 250 Fourth of July celebrations that includes an address from President Trump and a massive fireworks show . It was unclear if the schedule of events would be significantly delayed.
Storms trigger power outages amid intense heat wave
A vicious storm struck the New York area late Friday, leaving hundreds of thousands of utility customers without power in the middle of a heat wave. The mercury hit a sweltering 98 degrees in Central Park Friday, CBS New York reported.