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The annual Macy's Fourth of July fireworks display in New York will be kicking off along the Hudson River around 9:20 p.m.

The 25-minute display between West 18th and 43rdstreets will include 40,000 fireworks in 15 colors and shapes, set off in sync with music by such artists as Ray Charles, Madonna and Whitney Houston. Kate Perry and Kenny Chesney will be among live performers at the show.

For those who don't want to brave the crowds jammed up to the banks of the river, the display will be broadcast live on NBC and a live stream can be followed on U-Stream.

Weather warnings have also been issued for the event. The extravaganza will go ahead, rain or shine, organizers say, but forecasters have confirmed that there is a 30 percent risk of thunderstorms during the event.

Independence Day has also marked the third heat wave of the summer season. Temperatures will top the mid-90's on Wednesday and due the humidity it could feel as hot as 100, according to NBC New York.

Those willing to brave the weather and crowds can find the best viewing points between 10thAvenue and West Side Highway, and any rooftop that can see the river. Viewing will be limited above 59th street.

Access points include:

24th-26th streets

27th-29 streets

33-34th streets

40-42 streets

44-50 streets

52-54 streets

56-57 streets

The event can also be followed through the free Macy's fireworks app, which features behind-the-scenes videos and information about the fireworks.

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