Donald Trump speech ahead of National Mall fireworks display amid 250th anniversary of American independence

The heat wave that affected Washington DC and most of the USA caused some changes in the daytime celebrations on July 4th.

Temperatures are currently 38 degrees in DC and are expected to reach 39 degrees by the afternoon.

The site of the Washington Monument was due to open to revelers in the early afternoon local time, but the opening has now been postponed until 5pm (7am AEST). The State Fair on the National Mall also won’t open until 5 p.m.

“Adjustments have been made to the Salute to America celebration to prioritize the safety and comfort of participants, volunteers, performers and staff,” organizers said in a statement.

“In light of current temperature conditions, Freedom 250, the United States Park Police, the National Park Service, the United States Secret Service, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency worked closely to adjust event timing and expand cooling resources, water stations, and on-site medical support.”