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Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade balloons in jeopardy due to winds

NEW YORK, NY - NOVEMBER 22: A "PAW Patrol" balloon floats during the 92nd annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade on November 22, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Kena Betancur/Getty Images)

NEW YORK, Ny – The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade might not fly its iconic balloons this year due to strong winds.

Officials in New York say city rules state the balloons can’t fly in sustained winds that exceed 23 miles per hour. Wind gusts over 34 miles per hour would also sideline the balloons.

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Right now, the forecast for sustained winds do not exceed the regulations, but the gusts do. Officials say they will monitor wind conditions and decide whether to allow the balloons to be flown.

The regulations were put in place in 1997 when the “Cat in the Hat” balloon injured four people after being overtaken by strong winds.

There is some good news, this year’s temperatures are expected to be in the mid 40′s.