Tue Jul 08 06:10:00 UTC 2025: **News Article: Stormy Weather Threatens Fourth of July Travel in Northeast**
**Millions Brace for Travel Delays as Severe Storms Loom over Holiday Weekend**
NEW YORK — Travelers heading out for the Fourth of July holiday are facing potential disruptions as severe weather is forecast to sweep across the Northeast corridor today, Thursday. An estimated 39 million people from Philadelphia to Maine are under threat of severe thunderstorms, potentially impacting what is expected to be the busiest holiday travel week in years.
The National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center has issued a “slight risk” of severe thunderstorms for parts of the Northern Plains, Northeast, and mid-Atlantic regions. The storms are predicted to develop after lunchtime, bringing with them the possibility of 60 mph wind gusts and hail up to one inch in diameter. The turbulent weather could linger into the evening and potentially overnight.
Major cities like New York City (2 p.m. to 10 p.m. ET), Philadelphia (4 p.m. to 11 p.m.), and Boston (3 p.m. to 9 p.m.) are all expected to experience scattered storms. The most significant threat in New York is predicted to coincide with the evening commute, between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m.
Despite the stormy forecast in the East, Independence Day itself is expected to bring milder, sunny conditions to the West Coast. Texas and Florida will see scattered storms, with severe storms possible in the Northern Plains. The Northeast is forecast to enjoy pleasant weather with temperatures in the 80s.
The anticipated weather comes as travel numbers are soaring. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) expects over 18.5 million people to pass through airport security checkpoints this week, while the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) projects this Fourth of July travel week to be the busiest in 15 years, with over 300,000 flights scheduled.
According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), a record 72.2 million Americans are expected to travel domestically between June 28 and July 6, an increase of 1.7 million compared to last year. The vast majority, 61.6 million, are expected to travel by car, with 5.84 million flying and 4.78 million opting for bus, train, or cruise travel.
Travelers are advised to check weather conditions and flight statuses before heading to the airport or starting their road trips, and to be prepared for potential delays.
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