RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- North Carolinians are celebrating Independence Day and America's 250th anniversary under dangerous heat conditions across much of the state.
From parades and festivals to fireworks shows and community gatherings, thousands are expected to take part in Fourth of July events throughout the Triangle and beyond. At the same time, extreme heat warnings and heat advisories remain in effect across central North Carolina, with heat index values climbing into the triple digits.
Follow along throughout the day as ABC11 tracks America 250 events, traffic, fireworks displays and the ongoing heat wave.
The Independence Day heat wave made history across central North Carolina on Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service, Raleigh reached 103 degrees, breaking its previous daily record high. Fayetteville also set a new record, climbing to 100 degrees.
The record-breaking temperatures came as much of central North Carolina remained under an Extreme Heat Warning, with heat index values soaring well above 100 degrees.
The City of Raleigh is moving forward with its Fourth of July celebration at Dix Park despite dangerous heat across the region.
Officials are urging attendees to prioritize their health and safety as temperatures remain well above normal. When gates open at 6 p.m., temperatures are expected to be near 100 degrees. By 9 p.m., conditions should ease slightly, with temperatures falling to around 90 degrees.
Event organizers encourage visitors to stay hydrated, seek shade when possible and take frequent breaks from the heat while enjoying the festivities. Fireworks remain scheduled for later this evening.
July 4th weekend is here, and if you're making plans for Independence Day, you might want to know what stores and businesses will be open or closed for the holiday. From retail to restaurants, here's what you need to know before heading out for the 4th.
It is recommended to check local store hours as they may vary by location.
Check list here for stores and restaurants that have confirmed they're open on the holiday.
Hundreds of people gathered Saturday morning for the 77th annual Watts-Hillandale Fourth of July Parade, continuing a longtime Durham tradition despite soaring temperatures.
The parade, led by local law enforcement and members of the Durham Fire Department, wound through the neighborhood as residents waved flags, rode bicycles and scooters, and celebrated Independence Day.
"Independence Day. Our nation - we fought for it," attendee Salem Parker said.
After circling the neighborhood, participants gathered in a local park, where families cooled off and reflected on what the holiday means to them.
"Today means we have a long project that we're still in the midst of," attendee David Liu said. "Instead of the dichotomy of dependence or independence, we need to think more along the lines of interdependence."
The parade was one of several Fourth of July celebrations held across the Triangle as residents braved dangerous heat to take part in holiday traditions.
"I can handle it. I kind of like the weather," attendee Micah Stevens said.
Organizers said they were grateful the event took place earlier in the day before the highest temperatures arrived.
Many attendees lingered after the parade to visit with neighbors before heading home - and, for some, finding a pool, lake or other way to cool off during the holiday weekend.
