top of page
Writer's pictureWVBR News

High winds may ground balloons for Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

Macy's Parade spokesman states that the famous balloons of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade can only be operated if sustained wind conditions stay below 23 mph and wind gusts are not expected to exceed 34 mph based on city regulations.

AccuWeather Global Weather Center – November 25, 2019 – Along with high winds threatening to hinder flights in the Northeast on Wednesday, conditions may remain blustery enough to cause trouble for balloons at the 93rd annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City.

The famous balloons of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade can only be operated if sustained wind conditions stay below 23 mph and wind gusts are not expected to exceed 34 mph based on city regulations, according to Orlando Veras, a Macy's Parade spokesman. Conditions expected on Thanksgiving Day may exceed these thresholds.


Higher gusts are possible between the buildings where the wind is funneled and over the bridges where there are no obstructions.

"Winds this strong will be a safety concern for balloon handlers and spectators along the parade route," Travis said.

The last time the parade's balloons were grounded due to inclement weather was nearly 50 years ago in 1971, according to the New York Times.

Winds may be strong enough to cause problems from Wednesday afternoon through Thursday.

The balloons are scheduled to be inflated the afternoon and evening before the parade near the American Museum of Natural History in Manhattan.

Comments


bottom of page