Bad Weather Might Keep The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade from Having Balloons This Year

The thing we look forward to every year is watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on TV every Thanksgiving morning. My kids just love the balloons but this year might change everything…

Bad Weather Might Keep The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade from Having Balloons This Year!

According to news reports, a strong storm system is expected to move into the northeast Tuesday night and throughout the day on Wednesday. While the system will push out to sea by Thanksgiving Day, the cold front that brings in much colder and drier air will also usher in some very windy conditions.

So, why would it matter if the balloons are still floating about on Thanksgiving even with the wind?

Well, Back in 1997, during the Thanksgiving Day Parade the iconic Cat in the Hat balloon got caught up in some strong wind gusts. The balloon handlers couldn’t control it and it blew into a lamppost, injuring four people in the crowd.

Because of this, New York City took steps the following year, instituting a rule that states balloons cannot fly if sustained wind speeds are in excess of 23 mph or wind gusts exceed 34 mph.

As of right now, The National Weather Service in New York City is currently forecasting sustained wind speeds during the parade of 18 to 21 mph with wind gusts between 38 to 40 mph meaning balloons will have to be grounded.