Winds ground Fourth of July drone shows meant to replace Lake Tahoe fireworks

The Lake Tahoe Independence Day drone light shows have officially been grounded.

Unsafe weather conditions composed of gusty and cold winds prompted the postponement of the two shows — scheduled for Sunday and Monday in Kings Beach and Tahoe City — according to The North Lake Tahoe Resort Association.

“This decision did not come easily, nor is it something that the collective group took lightly,” Tony Karwowski, the association’s president and CEO, said in a press release. “Unfortunately, the predicted wind models haven’t changed over the past several days, and reports indicate a 98% probability the drones will be unable to fly over the lake on July 3 and July 4 within safe operational limits.”

“Knowing how popular North Lake Tahoe is over the July 4 holiday, postponing the shows now instead of waiting to call it off at the last minute is the right thing to do for our community.”

The decision to replace the usual fireworks show with drones was due to concerns over fire danger, along with other environmental concerns.

The show would have consisted of 200 drones buzzing through the night sky set to music.

Organizers do not yet know when the show will be rescheduled, but they are looking at Labor Day weekend as a possibility.

The association said the weather conditions would also likely prevent any traditional firework shows in the area.

This story was originally published July 1, 2022 at 5:45 PM.