Extreme heat is bearing down on the United States as America 250 celebrations ramp up, with former President Donald Trump heading to Mount Rushmore. The heat wave is also affecting Canada and Europe, with multiple regions under heat warnings.
America 250 Celebrations Underway
Drones put on a show in the sky near Independence Hall in Philadelphia on Thursday, July 2, 2026, as part of the America 250 festivities. The celebrations mark the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Trump's visit to Mount Rushmore is expected to draw large crowds amid the scorching temperatures.
Heat Wave Impacts Across Canada
Canadians are enduring yet another day of heat warnings and drifting wildfire smoke. More than 50,000 Hydro-Quebec clients are without electricity as the heat wave continues. In New Brunswick, extreme heat forced the closure of takeout restaurants, with one owner saying, 'It was really hot.'
Montreal's moving day cleanup will take at least a week, with dumping fines up to $4,000. Alberta’s Premier Danielle Smith noted that a proposed oil pipeline route has 'key advantages,' despite shipping economics concerns.
European Heat Wave Causes Surge in Deaths
Belgium reported a 39% spike in deaths during the June heat wave, according to health officials. In France, deaths surged 29% during a week of record heat, according to the health agency. The World Health Organization has also declared that a cruise ship-linked hantavirus outbreak is over.
Other News Highlights
Greater Toronto home sales were up 9.4% in June, with the board predicting price growth could come. The rollout of Canada’s boosted grocery benefit started today. In sports, Canada's soccer team is set for a historic World Cup match, and young Swiss star Johan Manzambi continues to shine at the FIFA World Cup.
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s wedding is expected to take place today in New York, according to reports. In science, a rescue mission launches to save a NASA telescope falling back to Earth, and researchers have launched a study on Ebola treatments as the Congo outbreak worsens.
