More than 165 million Americans are seeking relief from extreme heat as the nation celebrates the 250th anniversary of its independence from Britain. The RAF's Red Arrows performed a flypast over New York City, which also hosted an international naval review and a flotilla of tall ships. The Band of the Royal Marines performed in New York after entertaining crowds in Washington DC earlier in the week.
Times Square Ball Drop and Philadelphia Celebrations
For the first time in history, the Times Square ball was dropped on a day other than New Year's Eve, lowered eight times to mark midnight across all US time zones and territories, starting with Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands. In Philadelphia, where the Declaration of Independence was adopted in 1776, Britain's ambassador to the US described the bilateral relationship as 'vital, consequential and enduring'.
Military Flyovers and Fireworks
Throughout the week, military jets including F-22 Raptors, the Thunderbirds, and B-1 stealth bombers conducted flyovers in Washington. President Donald Trump promised the largest fireworks display in the nation's history and was scheduled to speak at the National Mall on Saturday evening. On the West Coast, Los Angeles celebrated with a giant concert, a free street party, and a drone show.
Record-Breaking Heat and Safety Measures
July 4 was forecast to be the hottest on record for millions in the eastern US. Temperatures were expected to reach 38C (101F) in New York, 40C (104F) in Washington, and 42C (108F) in Little Rock, Arkansas. Heat alerts were issued, and officials urged safety precautions. In New York City, vans staffed by nurses and paramedics distributed water and sunscreen, and cooling centres opened. Washington provided water stations and cooling facilities. A planned parade in Philadelphia was cancelled due to the heat.
Political Divisions Amid Celebrations
The anniversary festivities have highlighted political divisions, with Trump accused of using the milestone for self-promotion. The creation of Freedom 250, an organisation aligned with the White House, has rivalled America250, a bipartisan group founded by Congress a decade ago to plan activities.
