Beware of excessive heat in parts of the Southeast, Mid-Atlantic and even Alaska
Fireworks over San Diego, California, in an undated stock photo. (Image credit: istock)
What’s it looking like for the long Fourth of July weekend? A quiet weather pattern is unfolding in the West, while hazardous conditions are predicted for parts of the Midwest and Southeast. Check the weather forecast and hazards map well before you head out to Independence Day parades, picnics and fireworks to get the most out of your outdoor plans.
High heat on the way, again
A dangerous heat wave is engulfing the Mid-Atlantic states down into parts of the Southeast and across into southern Texas. The Eastern Seaboard will have heat indices above 100 degrees F with highs of 110 degrees inland throughout the long holiday weekend.
Parts of the Northeast and New England, however, are predicted to be dry with much-above-average temperatures. From the Rockies westward, forecasters predict dry conditions and below-average temperatures for July 4 with a warming trend going into the weekend.
Record-breaking temperatures — with high temperatures in the 80s and 90s — are forecast across southern Alaska through this weekend, as a strong upper level ridge parks over the state.
Most of us know exposure to excessive heat can be fatal, but did you know more people die from heat than any other weather-related hazard — more than tornadoes, hurricanes, or floods? Be sure you know the signs and symptoms of heat stroke (a medical emergency) and heat exhaustion. And, don’t forget: Stay hydrated as your travel, and protect yourself from the sun.
Severe storms for some: When thunder roars, go indoors. Please.
Areas of thunderstorms with heavy rainfall, lightning and potentially strong winds are likely to occur across the northern Plains, upper Midwest and Ohio Valley. Heavy rain could cause new flooding in portions of the upper Mississippi Valley as well as impact ongoing and historic flooding along the Mississippi River. Flows along the Lower Mississippi will remain in flood for the foreseeable future. Scattered thunderstorms are also possible from the Mid-Atlantic to the Southeast and the South.
Know before you go
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To stay on top of the latest weather forecast and current conditions for your location, visit www.weather.gov or mobile.weather.gov and enter a Zip Code for a customized forecast.
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Follow your local NOAA National Weather Service on your preferred social media channel.
Whatever your weather, we wish you and yours a peaceful and relaxing Independence Day!
