Fireworks forecast looking better

Published 2:06 pm Saturday, July 3, 2010

A little change in the weather seems possible.

The forecast on Thursday evening and Friday morning predicted rain to settle in at noon Sunday and stay until the evening, possibly disrupting the Independence Day fireworks show over Fountain Lake in Albert Lea.

However, KIMT meteorologist Adam Frederick looked at his weather models Friday afternoon and said the forecast had improved. He said it looks like the showers and thunderstorms could come around 7 a.m. and clear off in the evening. The fireworks are slated to start at dusk Sunday.

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“There is a good chance we are going to see rain on the Fourth of July, but there is a fair chance that rain is going to come to an end by sunset,” Frederick said. “All hope is not lost.”

He said the forecast remained 48 hours away, so it could change, and said he hopes the storm’s arrival trends toward earlier and earlier times.

Albert Lea-Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Randy Kehr confirmed Friday that the fireworks display planned over Fountain Lake on the Fourth of July will be moved to Monday night if there is rain Sunday night.

However, he noted that rain fell last year for most of Independence Day. It cleared off by 6 p.m., and the fireworks display went well. He said fireworks company is experienced in handling weather issues, so rain for most of the day won’t delay the display.

People can know whether the fireworks display will go ahead or be postponed by following AlbertLeaTribune.com on Sunday.

About Tim Engstrom

Tim Engstrom is the editor of the Albert Lea Tribune. He resides in Albert Lea with his wife, two sons and dog.

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