A record-breaking 72.2 million Americans are expected to travel in the days leading up to the July 4th weekend, with 62.2 million planning to hit the roads, according to a press release from the American Automobile Association (AAA).
For many, the long weekend signifies the beginning of summer vacations—whether it’s a quick day trip, a long weekend getaway, or even a full week of travel to visit friends and family or spend time at the beach or in the mountains.
What to Expect Weather-Wise
In the days leading up to July 4th, the weather will be warm to hot in many parts of the West, while typical summer warmth continues from the Great Lakes to the Northeast. Humid conditions with showers and thunderstorms will affect areas from New Mexico to the Carolinas, Georgia, and Florida.
Thunderstorms and Heavy Rain
AccuWeather’s Lead Long-Range Meteorologist Paul Pastelok predicts that Friday, July 4 will bring some disruptive downpours and potent thunderstorms, especially in portions of the Midwest, Southeast, and interior Southwest.
A broad area of clouds, showers, and thunderstorms is forecast to form over the northeastern Gulf Coast and Southern Atlantic Coast later in June and linger through early July. This area of low pressure may develop into one or more tropical rainstorms.
For those heading to the beaches from northern Florida and the Alabama/Mississippi panhandles to the Carolinas, be aware of potentially rough surf conditions and stiff winds, particularly if a tropical depression or storm develops.
Thunderstorms in the Midwest and Northeast
Thunderstorms are expected to develop over the northern and central Plains and move into the Midwest, affecting areas such as Minneapolis, Chicago, Indianapolis, St. Louis, and Kansas City. Outdoor activities in these cities could be impacted by clouds, downpours, and possible severe weather.
In the Northeast, conditions are expected to be cooler compared to this week’s heatwave.
The day and evening of July 4th are expected to be free of rain from Boston to New York City and Washington, D.C., offering great conditions for some of the largest fireworks displays in the country.
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Western States to Stay Hot
For those looking for heat, the best bets are the interior West, the Plains, and the interior Southeast, where temperatures will soar into the 90s to low 100s. The deserts of the Southwest will see high temperatures, while the Plains and interior Southeast will be warm, with highs in the upper 80s to mid-90s.
Beach Conditions
For those heading to the beach, New England and the upper mid-Atlantic regions may experience chilly surf temperatures, typically ranging from the upper 40s to low 60s.
Meanwhile, the Pacific Coast will experience similar cold waters, making it ideal for those who enjoy cooler beach activities. Along the Gulf Coast and southern Atlantic coasts, surf temperatures are warm enough for swimming, generally ranging in the 80s.
What Are Your Travel Plans This July 4th?
With summer just beginning, how are you preparing for the holiday weekend? Are you staying local, heading to the beach, or going on a road trip? Share your thoughts with us, and let us know how you plan to celebrate safely at ridgecrestpact.org.
