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Heat, Hail and the Fourth: A Day of Storms

New York, NY, City, USASaturday, July 4, 2026

The Storm’s Wrath: Trees Down, Power Out, Fireworks Canceled

A violent thunderstorm carved through New York last night, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Hundreds of thousands were plunged into darkness as the storm tore through the region—especially hammering Morris and Monmouth Counties, where trees were ripped from the ground and power lines snapped like twigs.

In Queens, a sudden surge in an underground cable forced Con Edison to cut power to nearly 10,000 customers, plunging neighborhoods into a stifling blackout. The storm even shattered the grandstands on Governor’s Island, dashing the hopes of premium ticket holders for the historic Sail Parade.

🔥 Now, a Brutal Heat Wave Descends

As if the storm wasn’t enough, New York braces for a scorching day—temperatures are expected to soar near 100°F, triggering an extreme heat warning that will hold until evening. The sweltering heat will make recovery from the storm even more unbearable for those still without air conditioning.

But relief is in sight. Cooler air is on the way tonight, dropping temperatures to a far more manageable 74°F. However, this reprieve comes with a catch—another storm system could roll in just in time for the Fourth of July fireworks.

💥 Fireworks in the Crosshairs: Rain Threatens Macy’s Spectacle

Forecasters predict rain beginning around 7 p.m., lingering until 11 p.m.—just before the Macy’s fireworks launch at 9:25 p.m. Will the iconic show go on, or will Mother Nature steal the spotlight?

🌤️ Weekend Forecast: Mild, But Not Without Rain

The weather calms slightly into the weekend:

  • Sunday: High of 84°F with scattered showers
  • Monday: Cooler at 75°F, but more rain is expected

New Yorkers, already battered by the storm, now face a weekend of unpredictable weather—heat, storms, and the ever-present question: Will the fireworks survive the rain?

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