Extreme Heat Forces Fourth of July Parades and Events to Be Canceled Nationwide

A powerful and historic heat wave sweeping across the United States is putting a damper on Fourth of July celebrations, pushing event organizers in communities nationwide to cancel parades and postpone other Independence Day activities.

The dangerous temperatures are making it difficult — and in some cases impossible — to safely hold outdoor events that millions of Americans look forward to each year. As a result, organizers have been left with little choice but to alter or completely call off their planned festivities.