Brooklyn Bridge fire during US Independence Day fireworks show

Fire erupts during Independence Day celebrations

A fire broke out on New York City's Brooklyn Bridge during the Macy’s US Independence Day fireworks display on Saturday night. The incident occurred as fireworks were being launched from the bridge over the East River. Authorities said no injuries were immediately reported, while videos shared on social media showed flames and smoke rising from sections of the bridge.

The fire happened during Macy’s annual Independence Day celebration as the United States marked the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Officials had not announced the extent of the damage to the historic bridge.

Firefighters quickly bring blaze under control

According to the Associated Press (AP), two fire engines were dispatched to the scene to extinguish the fire. Firefighters were seen spraying water on the affected area shortly before 10:00 pm, while the Brooklyn Bridge remained closed to traffic during the fireworks event.

A spokesperson for the city's fire department said that such incidents are not entirely unexpected during large fireworks displays. Officials maintain safety zones around launch sites to reduce risks to the public in case similar incidents occur.

Severe weather affects celebrations across the US

The fireworks display in New York was moved earlier than planned because of forecasts of severe weather. Storm threats also disrupted several Independence Day celebrations across the eastern United States.

In Washington, DC, officials temporarily evacuated crowds gathered at the National Mall after emergency authorities warned of an approaching severe thunderstorm. Several other celebrations across the East Coast were either delayed or cancelled because of the changing weather conditions.

Heatwave and storms create additional challenges

Apart from severe storms, much of the country continued to experience extreme heat. Authorities reported that the number of deaths linked to the ongoing heatwave had increased to 25.

The National Weather Service said nearly 156 million people remained under heat alerts across the eastern two-thirds of the United States as temperatures exceeded 38°C (100°F) in several cities, including Washington, DC, Norfolk, Virginia, and Raleigh, North Carolina.

Emergency workers and members of the National Guard treated people suffering from heat-related illnesses during the Salute to America 250 celebrations in Washington.

Millions remain under weather alerts

More than 72 million people were also placed under severe thunderstorm watches as forecasters warned of damaging winds reaching over 105 kilometres per hour (65 mph) and hail in several regions.

The National Weather Service said cooler air moving south from Canada is expected to gradually reduce temperatures in the Northeast over the coming days. However, dangerous overnight heat and high humidity are expected to continue in some areas.

New Jersey reports rise in heat-related deaths

Authorities in New Jersey said suspected heat-related deaths increased from 19 to 22, with victims ranging in age from their 30s to 80s. Most fatalities were reported across ten counties, mainly in central and northern parts of the state.

State Health Commissioner Raynard Washington said many victims were found inside homes without air conditioning, while others were discovered outdoors or inside parked vehicles.

Officials also confirmed that cooling equipment and generators were being supplied to healthcare facilities facing increased pressure, while some patients were being relocated where required.
(SOURCE:THE EXPRESS TRIBUNE)