Heavy rain and the forecast of more thunderstorms forced several municipalities in the St. Louis area to cancel or postpone their July 4th celebrations. Flash flood warnings were issued due to the heavy rain, leading to concerns for public safety.

According to the National Weather Service in St. Louis, a final round of thunderstorms was expected to hit the region between 7 p.m. and 11 p.m. on July 4th, leading to the cancellation of many scheduled events. However, the rain arrived later than predicted.

Among the affected cities, Florissant decided to delay its Fourth of July Celebration and rescheduled the fireworks show for Friday at the James J. Eagan Center, with an expected start time of 9:15 p.m. Kirkwood also postponed its Freedom Festival and Fireworks, now set to take place on Friday at Kirkwood Park. Food trucks will open at 5 p.m., followed by a concert and fireworks.

Washington also moved its celebration and the American Legion Post 218 fireworks show to Friday. Festivities are scheduled to begin at 6 p.m., with fireworks set for 9:30 p.m. Other cities that postponed their celebrations until Friday include De Soto, Eureka, Hillsboro, Manchester, and Millstadt.

Bridgeton and Troy had to cancel their fireworks shows, with no new dates announced yet. St. Charles had to cancel its Riverfest Parade due to the morning rain, and all Riverfest events for Friday, July 5, were subsequently canceled because of the rising Missouri River.

In O'Fallon, the parade on Thursday was delayed by 45 minutes due to the weather. However, parades in St. Louis and Webster Groves proceeded as planned on Thursday morning, unaffected by the rain.

The National Weather Service reported that the Interstate 70 corridor received approximately 2 inches of rainfall in the past two days, while some areas received as much as 6 inches. This excessive rainfall raised concerns for public safety and prompted the cancellations.

On a positive note, the National Weather Service predicts improved weather conditions for Friday and Saturday, with cooler temperatures, less humidity, and no rain expected.

Despite the unfortunate cancellations and postponements, the Alton Fireworks Spectacular on July 3rd at the Liberty Bank Amphitheater on the Missouri side was a success. Hundreds of spectators gathered to witness a 30-minute fireworks display, illuminating the night sky with vibrant colors. Attendees of the celebration embraced the patriotic spirit, wearing Star-Spangled Banner themed attire.

As communities in the St. Louis area adapt their plans due to inclement weather, residents and visitors remain hopeful for an enjoyable and safe July 4th weekend.