Weather Forecasts and Safety Tips for July 4th

Extreme heat waves are sweeping the U.S., prompting meteorologists to warn of a hot and smoky summer. With wildfires raging in Canada, smoke has blanketed cities like Chicago and Detroit, affecting air quality. Over 80 million Americans are under excessive heat alerts. Tragically, the heat wave has caused fatalities and power outages.

The heat dome responsible for these soaring temperatures is expected to move eastward. Regions like Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Missouri are expected to face extreme heat indexes surpassing 110°F (43°C).

Tropical Storm Cindy is gaining strength over the Atlantic Ocean, about 915 miles east of the Lesser Antilles. It is moving west-northwest with sustained winds of 50 mph.

However, it is expected to stay east and northeast of the northern Leeward Islands. Cindy will gradually strengthen and weaken, likely becoming a post-tropical cyclone by next Wednesday. No coastal watches or warnings are in effect, and it poses no threat to Florida.

Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Bret is moving westward over the eastern Caribbean Sea, bringing rain and gusty winds to portions of the Lesser Antilles. It is expected to dissipate over the central Caribbean Sea by Saturday night or Sunday.