Extreme heat, drought and dangerous fire weather are raising wildfire risks across the U.S. West heading into the July 4 weekend.
Why it matters: Millions of Americans celebrating Independence Day face fireworks restrictions as officials warn that a single spark could ignite fast-moving wildfires in areas already strained by extreme heat and drought.
Data: U.S. Drought Monitor; Map: Erin Davis/Axios Visuals
Firework associations expect a massive boom in backyard fireworks this July 4, a surge that collides with dry conditions and a blistering heatwave that could drastically increase the risk of fires.
Why it matters: Climate change is increasing the likelihood and severity of wildfires, and large chunks of the U.S. are under burn bans because of severe drought.
The average regular U.S. gasoline price is $3.85 as of Thursday morning, per AAA data.
Why it matters: That's lower than it was, but it's by far the highest price heading into the July 4 weekend since 2022, when the national average was $4.80 on the holiday itself.
ASPEN, Colo. — Colorado's Democratic governor, Jared Polis, defended data centers, touted oil and gas rules and bemoaned climate change in a recent interview in this mountain town.
Why it matters: Colorado has long been a microcosm of the nation's debates on energy, AI and the effects of a warming planet.
