Will Weather Rain on America’s Parade? Thunderstorms Threaten July 4th Fireworks

Severe thunderstorms, flash floods, and hail batter Maine and New Hampshire ahead of Independence Day — but Friday could bring clear skies and celebration-ready weather

Washington, D.C., July 4, 2025 — As millions across the United States gear up to celebrate Independence Day, severe weather has gripped parts of New England, casting a cloud over early holiday festivities. A Severe Thunderstorm Watch was issued for all of Maine and New Hampshire until 6 p.m. Thursday, with heavy rain, strong winds, flash flooding, and power outages reported across several regions.

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🌪️ Widespread Storm Damage in Maine

By Thursday noon, intense storm activity had already been reported in Somerset, Oxford, and Cumberland counties, with Bethel, Rumford, Fryeburg, and Bridgton among the worst-hit areas. Northern Maine saw additional warnings as wind gusts hit 55 mph, according to weather trackers in Denmark, ME.

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A Flash Flood Warning was issued in Piscataquis and Somerset counties, including Baxter State Park, with rainfall nearing three inches and forecasts predicting two more.

The Caribou NWS Office called it “the most active severe weather day of the season” for northern and eastern Maine.

⚠️ Hail, Flooding & Power Outages

By early afternoon, warnings expanded to Oxford, Androscoggin, and Cumberland counties, warning of nickel-sized hail and damaging wind gusts.

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• Versant Power reported 1,200 outages
• Central Maine Power noted smaller, scattered disruptions
• Downed trees and live wires added to safety concerns

The Storm Prediction Center outlined the main threats as:

• 🌬️ Wind gusts over 60 mph
• 🧊 Hail storms
• 🌊 Flash flooding
• ⚡ Frequent lightning

⛈️ New Hampshire Also Under Threat

New Hampshire was not spared, remaining under a severe thunderstorm watch until 6 p.m. Thursday. Two quick warnings were issued Thursday morning, and more are expected into the afternoon and evening.

Public officials have advised caution, especially for outdoor events and early fireworks shows. Organizers may delay or cancel programs depending on how long the storm systems linger.

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✅ Safety Tips from Officials

• Use NOAA weather radios or weather alert apps
• Avoid trees, tents, and open spaces during a thunderstorm
• Stay away from water bodies
• Evacuate low-lying areas if flooding begins
• Seek sturdy shelter immediately at the first clap of thunder

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🌤️ Good News: Clear Skies Expected for Friday’s Main Celebrations

Despite Thursday’s disruption, Friday’s forecast across New England is promising:

• Mostly clear skies
• Temperatures in the low to mid-70s
• Lower humidity for comfort
• Stray showers possible only in far northern regions

This is great news for evening fireworks displays, which should enjoy an ideal weather backdrop with cool, dry conditions.

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🔥 Weekend Outlook: From Cool to Sweltering

• Saturday: Sunny with highs in the low-to-mid 80s
• Sunday: Temperatures rise further with heat index nearing 90°F, humidity making a comeback

Officials recommend heat precautions for Sunday events and outdoor gatherings, including staying hydrated and seeking shade when possible.

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Fourth of July 2025, Maine thunderstorms, New Hampshire weather, Independence Day weather forecast, fireworks July 4, flash flood warning, NWS alerts, severe weather advisory, US holiday weekend weather