The United States marked the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence with celebrations across the country, despite extreme weather disrupting many planned events.

Large parts of the East Coast experienced intense heat, while severe thunderstorms forced organisers to alter schedules, cancel parades and evacuate public spaces.In New York City, the annual Macy's Fourth of July fireworks display was brought forward to avoid the worst of the storms.Following the display, a small fire was reported on the Brooklyn Bridge, with flames and smoke visible in images shared on social media.No injuries were reported, and officials had not immediately confirmed the extent or cause of the damage.In Washington, D.C.

, the National Mall was temporarily evacuated ahead of President Donald Trump's Independence Day address because of approaching storms, although he stated that he intended to deliver his speech once conditions improved.Across the country, people continued traditional celebrations including barbecues, street parties and fireworks displays.

In New York, festivities also featured a midnight ball drop, a parade of tall ships near the Statue of Liberty and the annual Nathan's Famous hot dog eating contest, where Joey Chestnut secured another victory in the men's competition and Miki Sudo retained the women's title despite the challenging heat.

The anniversary also unfolded against a backdrop of political division, with speeches from political leaders reflecting contrasting views about the country's future, democracy and national identity.

While celebrations highlighted American history and tradition, the extreme weather and political tensions underscored the complex atmosphere surrounding this milestone national occasion.