Sun and warmth expected for much of the West and East on Tuesday
Going to a parade, picnic, party or fireworks this Independence Day? As most of the fun takes place outdoors, make sure you’re weather-ready by checking the forecast before you head out.
Cities like Portland, Oregon (pictured); Sacramento; Las Vegas and Seattle are likely to have the best weather for viewing fireworks on July 4, 2017. Get your local forecast for your neck of the woods at weather.gov. (Image credit: iStock)
First, the good news
The weather looks good out West from now through the Fourth of July. From the Pacific Northwest to Northern Rockies and down through the Southwest, NOAA’s National Weather Service predicts it’s likely to be dry and warm for the days leading up to and through the holiday.
Sunny, warm weather is expected in the East on Monday and Tuesday (July 4). Cooler-than-normal temperatures are likely from across the Great Lakes into New England.
And the not-so-good news
NWS is forecasting showers and thunderstorms for portions of the Plains and Mississippi Valley. Heavy rain may accompany some of these storms, leading to flash-flooding. A few severe storms with isolated damaging wind gusts are possible in parts of the northern Ohio Valley into the Mid-Atlantic. Heavy rain may also impact the Carolina coast through July 4.
The Southeast will have typical summer weather with scattered thunderstorms possible over much of the region through Tuesday.
High temperatures are expected in the western interior mountains. Fire danger is at very high levels in the Desert Southwest where temperatures are expected to soar into the 110s on July 4.
Beachgoers, be on alert for dangerous surf
There is an elevated threat of rip currents for Gulf Coast and East Coast beaches. Before you hit the surf, please memorize these tips and watch this video on how to survive a rip current. Most important: Swim only in areas monitored by lifeguards.
Remember: The weather can change quickly.
Be sure to check your local forecast frequently at weather.gov before you head outside.
What are your chances for a dry or wet Independence Day in your area based on climate records?
See our historical probability map for rain.
Happy Fourth of July, everyone!
