Extreme heat advisory delays National Mall July 4 event, organizers say

(The Hill) – Entry to the National Mall for a record-breaking fireworks show celebrating July 4 has been delayed as Washington, D.C. braces for extreme heat, Freedom 250 organizers said Thursday.

President Trump insisted he would still deliver a lengthy speech at Saturday’s “Salute to America 250 Celebration & Fireworks” event, despite forecasts that temperatures will climb to 107 degrees.

White House officials have privately expressed concern that turnout for the event could be low, according to CNN, pointing to the lackluster turnout at his appearance last week on the National Mall.

Under the revised schedule, entry into the Washington Monument grounds will not open to the public until 5 p.m., and organizers encouraged guests to arrive no more than one hour before opening to minimize exposure to the heat.

The “Salute to America” event is set to begin at 7 p.m., and Trump is scheduled to deliver his remarks at 9:45 p.m. The fireworks show billed as the “world’s largest” will begin at 10:30 p.m. to commemorate the holiday.

In a statement alongside the U.S. Park Police, National Park Service, Secret Service and the Federal Emergency Management, organizers said the adjustments were made to prioritize the “safety and comfort” of attendees, performers and staff.

The agencies have “coordinated closely to adjust event timing and expand cooling resources, water stations, and medical support across the grounds,” the statement reads. “We are proud to welcome the public to a safe, well-prepared, and truly memorable celebration of America’s 250th birthday.”

The Great American State Fair and the FIFA Fan Zone also on the National Mall will still open at 10 a.m. as scheduled.

Complimentary water stations, cooling tents, misting areas and shaded rest zones will be available throughout the event grounds to protect guests from the sweltering heat.

Additional medical personnel will also be present.

National Weather Service forecasters expect temperatures in Washington to approach 107 degrees Fahrenheit on Saturday, which would top the city’s record heat on July 4.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHBF - OurQuadCities.com.