Record heat forces Fourth of July parades to cancel as temps top 100

An extreme heat wave across the eastern U.S. has led to the cancellation of major Fourth of July parades, including Philadelphia’s, as temperatures exceed 100°F with heat indices up to about 113°F in places like Washington, NYC, Philadelphia and Boston. Authorities opened cooling centers and hydration stations, urged people to stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade, and energy demand surged with potential travel delays as the Capitol Fourth concert proceeds with safety measures in place.