Extreme heat has disrupted Fourth of July celebrations across parts of the United States, including the cancellation of a parade in Washington DC. The Great American State Fair on the National Mall was temporarily shut after multiple people were treated for heat-related illnesses, with at least 11 taken to hospital by ambulance.

More than 165 million people were sweltering under record temperatures along the US East Coast and Midwest on Friday, according to the US National Weather Service. Philadelphia's Salute to Independence Semiquincentennial Parade was cancelled, with organisers citing dangerous heat conditions.

US President Donald Trump is expected to speak outdoors at a 4 July celebration on Saturday despite the heat, reportedly saying he would give a long speech to show he can do anything. The Washington Monument was closed due to the heatwave.

New York City hit 100°F (38°C) on Thursday, its hottest day since 2012. Mayor Zohran Mamdani described conditions as extremely dangerous. The heat is expected to continue through the weekend, with severe thunderstorms forecast to follow.

Experts note that heatwaves have become more frequent, intense, and longer-lasting due to human-induced climate change. The world has warmed by about 1.1°C since the industrial era, and temperatures will keep rising without steep emissions cuts.

Source: www.bbc.co.uk