Area thunderstorms spared New York City and the throngs of spectators lining the Hudson River Wednesday evening for the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular.
More than 40,000 synchronized bursts of color exploded above the river into a cloudless sky, in defiance of persistent thunderstorm warnings.
After a day of scorching temperatures and intense humidity, forecasters warned of a slight risk for severe thunderstorms, which could produce wind gusts and lightning overnight.
Independence Day marked the start of the third heat wave of the summer, with oppressive heat and humidity settling in early. Temperatures, which topped off at 95 degrees around 5 p.m., cooled to just 86 degrees as the fireworks show kicked off.
The dangerous combination of heat and humidity prompted the National Weather Service to issue a heat advisory for the city Wednesday, urging residents to stay hydrated, avoid direct sunlight and avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day.
Thursday is expected to be sunny and hot with a high of 93 degrees and the trend continues Saturday, with a high of 94 degrees and late thunderstorms possible. Temperatures cool off a bit Sunday, capping off in the high 80s.
Next week begins with mostly sunny skies and highs in the mid-80s.
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