The United States is celebrating the 250th anniversary of its independence from Britain with thousands of events nationwide, as a severe heatwave grips the eastern part of the country, prompting health warnings and forcing the cancellation of some activities.
International Participation in Celebrations
The Royal Air Force's Red Arrows are participating in an international flypast over New York City, which is also hosting a naval review and a flotilla of tall ships. The Band of the Royal Marines performed in Washington DC earlier this week and is now entertaining crowds in New York.
In a historic first, the Times Square ball was dropped eight times to mark midnight across all US time zones and overseas territories, starting with Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands.
Diplomatic and Military Displays
Britain's ambassador to the US, Sir Christian Turner, described the relationship between the two nations as 'vital, consequential and enduring' during a visit to Philadelphia, where the Declaration of Independence was adopted in 1776.
Military flyovers and aerial demonstrations in Washington include F-22 Raptors, the US Air Force Thunderbirds, and B-1 stealth bombers. President Donald Trump promised the largest fireworks display in the nation's history in the capital and is scheduled to speak at the National Mall on Saturday evening.
Heatwave Impacts
July 4 is forecast to be the hottest on record for millions in the eastern US. Temperatures are expected to reach 38°C (101°F) in New York, 40°C (104°F) in Washington, and 42°C (108°F) in Little Rock, Arkansas. Officials urge safety precautions and hydration.
New York City has deployed vans staffed by nurses and paramedics to distribute water and sunscreen, and cooling centres are open. Event organizers in Washington provide water stations, cooling facilities, and medical support. A planned parade in Philadelphia was cancelled due to the heat.
Political Divisions
The anniversary has highlighted political divisions, with President Trump accused of using the occasion for self-promotion. The creation of Freedom 250, an organization aligned with the White House, has rivaled the bipartisan America250 group founded by Congress.
The Great American State Fair in Washington, organized by Freedom 250, was headlined by Trump after musical artists withdrew over political concerns. A commemorative gold coin bearing Trump's image was approved but not ready for July 4. However, a limited-edition 'Patriot Passport' featuring Trump with the Declaration of Independence will be available from Monday.
In a podcast appearance, Trump said: 'We have a great country. We have a country that is on a little bit of a ledge right now... but we're going to make it go the other, and we're going to make America greater than ever before.' He added, 'The fourth of July is a fantastic day, it's a day of celebration.'
On Friday, Trump travelled to South Dakota to speak and watch fireworks at Mount Rushmore.
