Millions under US heat warnings as record temperatures to continue | First Thing

Further extreme conditions expected during 4 July holiday, as thunderstorms and intense heat continue across the country

Good morning.

Millions across the US have been caught up in dangerous weather conditions over the weekend and are braced for further extreme conditions ahead of today's 4 July holiday, as thunderstorms and intense heat continue to affect much of the country.

What else is happening? Many midwest cities are also dealing with the aftermath of severe rain and flooding. Weekend thunderstorms in Chicago flooded streets and highways as nearly nine inches of rain fell in some areas of the city in just a few hours, affecting trains as well as motorists. Many in the midwest are without power after the weekend storms.

What's happening in North Carolina? PFAS pollution from a Chemours plant in North Carolina has widely contaminated the soil, water and air for hundreds of square miles around the company's Fayetteville Works plant, and residents have said their exposure to the chemicals is behind elevated cancer levels and other serious health problems. Residents have also said they suspect their pets have gotten sick from exposure to the chemicals.