July 2 – Events across northern Alabama look set to continue as normal this Independence Day, despite forecasts of extreme heat and a chance of rain.
Huntir Cramer, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Huntsville, said the biggest threat this week and next week is the heat. Temperatures coming up could be in the mid to high 90s, and “wind chill” temperatures are expected to be in the 100-110 range.
“We urge people to stay hydrated even if you don’t feel thirsty, to keep an eye on your friends and neighbors, to wear light clothing and not to leave children or pets unattended in the car,” she said.
The NWS said the chance of rain over the next few days is 20-70%. On Thursday, July 4, there is a 20-50% chance of rain, with a 50-70% chance on Friday and a 30-50% chance on Saturday. The chance of rain will increase throughout the day and peak in the evening hours.
Fourth of July events kick off Thursday in Decatur, Athens and Madison.
Decatur kicks off the festivities with the Spirit of America festival on Thursday at 1 p.m. at Point Mallard Park. The event will feature about 100 vendors and 25 food trucks, numerous inflatables and a car show. Several concerts will last until 9 p.m., when fireworks are scheduled to begin.
Chase Grisham, event coordinator, said they took the heat into account.
“We set up tents around the field, with cooling stations with free water and misting fans,” he said.
“The event is rain or shine. We definitely encourage everyone to come anyway.”
Athens also hosts an event on the Fourth Day.
Red, White, and Boom is a fireworks show hosted by Athens-Limestone County Tourism. The event runs from 8:00 to 8:30 p.m.
The fireworks will be launched from the Athens High football stadium, but it will not be open for seating. Spectators are encouraged to park in adjacent areas, including Central Church of Christ, Athens Shopping Center with Cultivate Church, Athens Middle School, Athens High School, Athens Sports Plex and Swan Creek Park.
A spokesperson for Athens-Limestone County Tourism said the event will take place rain or shine.
The Rocket City Trash Pandas are hosting a three-day Independence Day Celebration on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. The games are followed by fireworks each evening.
The Trash Pandas play the Birmingham Barons all three nights at 6:35pm
— trenedy.parks@decaturdaily.com
