National Independence Day Parade in D.C. canceled due to extreme heat

The National Independence Day Parade in Washington, D.C. has been canceled as forecasters warn the heat index could reach 115 degrees Fahrenheit, the city announced late Friday night, as the U.S. celebrates its 250th birthday.

A statement from the city’s Emergency Operations Center said the organizers of America’s National Independence Day Parade had made the decision to cancel the 2-hour event, which was due to start at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday.

“The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning for the District of Columbia, with heat index values expected to reach between 110°F and 115°F,” the center said.

It continued: “This decision was made after extensive and careful consideration of the safety of our participants, spectators, and staff as the top priority.”

America’s National Independence Day Parade takes place every July 4th, starting from 3rd St. and Constitution Ave., runing south along 3rd St. to Independence Ave., and heading west at Independence Ave. before ending at 12th St.

The parade consists of bands, fife and drum corps, floats, military and speciality units, giant balloons, equestrian, drill teams, VIPs, national dignitaries, and celebrity participants.