Millions affected by U.S. heatwave

Two-thirds of Americans are facing moderate to extreme heat
risk over the Fourth of July 250th anniversary weekend, as the
nation’s capital swelters in temperatures pushing past 40°C

SCALE: WHO AND WHAT IS AT RISK?

Minor: People extremely sensitive to heat without cooling/hydration
Moderate: Like “minor”, but also some health systems and industries
Major: Anyone without cooling/hydration, and health systems and industries
Extreme: Like “major” with no overnight relief, also affecting infrastructure

Sat, Jul 4, 2026

Washington DC 44°C

Population at risk (millions)

Minor
Moderate
Major
Extreme

96.2
104.6
63.7
65.9

Sun, Jul 5, 2026

Population at risk (millions)

Minor
Moderate
Major
Extreme

141.9
129.4
41.5
16.6

Mon, Jul 6, 2026

Population at risk (millions)

Minor
Moderate
Major
Extreme

191.7
95.7
34.6
7.1

Tue, Jul 7, 2026

Population at risk (millions)

Minor
Moderate
Major
Extreme

205.3
84.5
39.3
0.7 (715,000)

Sources: NOAA, New York Times
Data as at 0900GMT, Jul 3, 2026
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