Severe weather brought a dramatic twist to Independence Day celebrations across the East Coast, as torrential downpours and strong winds forced event cancellations and disruptions in Washington D.C., New York City, and Philadelphia. The Fourth of July festivities, which typically draw massive crowds, were severely impacted as authorities scrambled to ensure public safety. In Washington D.C., the National Independence Day Parade was among the events cancelled due to the inclement weather. Meanwhile, fireworks displays in New York City and Philadelphia were postponed or modified, leaving many to wonder if the nation's birthday celebrations would be anything but ordinary this year.
Special Report: Severe weather affects July Fourth events in D.C., New York and Philadelphia NBC News
