Live Updates: Extreme Heat Warning: NC temps soar above 100 degrees, hottest July 4th on record

A naturalization ceremony held Saturday morning welcomed 49 new citizens from 25 different countries. The ceremony was included with North Carolina's First in Freedom events

As communities across the country celebrate Independence Day and America's 250th birthday, dozens of people marked the holiday by officially becoming U.S. citizens.

For many, the ceremony represented the culmination of a years-long journey and the beginning of a new chapter in their lives as Americans.

Officials said holding the ceremony on the Fourth of July added special meaning to the occasion. After taking the Oath of Allegiance, the new citizens gained the right to vote, serve on juries and fully participate in civic life in the United States.

First Alert Day as the dangerous heat wave continues through the Fourth of July weekend and into Monday. An Extreme Heat Warning remains in effect until 8 p.m.

Highs on Saturday will be around 100 degrees, with feels-like temps as high as 115 degrees.

Record-high temperature for a July 4th currently stands at 101.

The Town of Knightdale sent out a reminder about the time change in its Fourth on First event due to the heat.

"Reminder due to the anticipated heat and out of an abundance of caution for our attendees, vendors, performers, volunteers, and staff, Fourth on First will now take place from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

While we know this is a change from our original schedule, the safety of our community remains our top priority. By moving the event to the morning, we can provide a more comfortable environment for everyone to enjoy the celebration."

July 4, 2026 is expected to be the hottest on record for Central North Carolina.

And with that in mind, the city of Raleigh is doing what it can for those who brave the heat Saturday to enjoy the festivities and the 9:30 p.m. fireworks show in Dix Park.

Here's what the city of Raleigh says they're doing to keep people safe for July 4 celebration and fireworks show in Dix Park.

The city will have free water refill stations in the park, along with complementary cans of sparkling water.

Attendees are allowed to bring small umbrellas for shade as well as soft coolers with their own cold drinks if it's easier.

There will be mist stations all across the park.

There will be medical crews around the park checking in on people to make sure they're okay.

ABC11 will have crews on hand and will bring you the latest updates from the Dix Park and other celebrations in the Triange.

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