New York City residents are facing a challenging Fourth of July weekend as a significant heatwave continues, with a possibility of thunderstorms on Saturday, July 4th. AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Matt Benz warned that a storm system could bring rain and lightning to the city after 4 p.m. on Saturday, potentially impacting fireworks displays.
"If you are setting up a place to see fireworks along the East River, have in mind a place where you could take cover,” Benz advised. “Keep an eye on the sky. Lightning is a big concern."
Saturday is forecast to reach a high of 95 degrees Fahrenheit, with high humidity making it feel even hotter. This follows a record-setting day on Thursday when temperatures in Central Park reached 100 degrees for the first time in over a decade, and a blistering 100 degrees on Friday. Benz described the air as "intense" and "uncomfortable," and potentially "pretty dangerous with a lot of people outside."
The heatwave is expected to subside by Sunday, with a cooler high of 86 degrees and some clouds predicted. Monday is forecast to be even cooler, with scattered showers and a high of 77 degrees.
While Friday's high of 100 degrees was not record-breaking for July 3rd, the extreme heat has prompted warnings for those sensitive to high temperatures to "take it easy."