National Weather Service United States Department of Commerce

Dangerous, Heat Wave Persists in the Eastern U.S.; Severe Weather Expected in the Central Plains and Mid-Atlantic

A prolonged, dangerous heat wave will persist through the Independence Day weekend across the Ohio Valley, Mid-South, and East Coast. Severe thunderstorms are expected to produce damaging wind gusts from the Upper Ohio Valley into the Mid Atlantic, and across the central Great Plains this afternoon and evening. Large hail and heavy rain is also possible across the Great Plains. Read More >

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Last Map Update: Sat, Jul 4, 2026 at 2:38:35 am PDT

West winds will pick up across the region on Independence Day bringing elevated to critical fire weather conditions. The strongest winds are forecast in Central Washington and near the Blue Mountains, where Red Flag Warnings are in effect for Saturday afternoon and evening. Winds will gust up to 30-35 MPH, with relative humidity bottoming out between 12-25%.
A warming and drying trend is forecast through the weekend. Independence Day will feature mostly sunny skies, gusty winds, and high temperatures in the 80s to low 90s.
Seasonably warm temperatures and mostly clear skies are currently anticipated for July 4th. In addition, dry conditions and gusty winds are likely, especially for central WA where the potential for elevated to critical fire conditions will need to be monitored over the coming days.

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