WASHINGTON — A record number of Americans were traveling over the Independence Day holiday on Saturday as a dangerous heat wave gripped much of the central and eastern United States, prompting health warnings, event cancellations and expanded emergency measures in several major cities.
AAA projected that about 72.2 million people would travel at least 50 miles from home during the July 4 holiday period, the highest figure on record and slightly above last year's total. The organization estimated that roughly 61.4 million travelers would drive, while nearly 5.9 million would fly domestically and almost 5 million would travel by rail, bus or cruise.
The surge in travel coincided with a prolonged heat dome that pushed temperatures and humidity to dangerous levels across broad sections of the country. The National Weather Service issued excessive heat warnings and advisories for millions of residents, warning that heat index values could exceed 110 degrees Fahrenheit (43 degrees Celsius) in some locations and urging people to limit outdoor activity, remain hydrated and check on vulnerable individuals.
The extreme conditions disrupted holiday celebrations in several cities. Philadelphia canceled its flagship Independence Day parade after forecasts called for triple-digit temperatures despite earlier efforts to shorten the route and move the start time earlier in the day. Other communities postponed or canceled outdoor events, while organizers added cooling stations, misting tents and medical resources where celebrations continued.
In Washington, organizers temporarily closed the Great American State Fair on the National Mall on Friday afternoon because of dangerous heat before planning to reopen later with additional cooling measures. Officials said Independence Day festivities, including the evening concert and fireworks, would proceed with expanded access to water refill stations and medical support.
Local governments across the affected region extended hours at cooling centers, public pools and other facilities to help residents cope with the prolonged heat. Emergency officials repeatedly warned that older adults, young children, outdoor workers and people without access to air conditioning faced elevated risks of heat-related illness.
Transportation officials also advised motorists to expect heavy congestion throughout the holiday weekend, while AAA encouraged travelers to prepare for delays, maintain their vehicles and avoid impaired driving during one of the busiest travel periods of the year. Authorities said they would continue monitoring weather conditions as holiday events and return travel unfolded through the weekend.
