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12/29 17:33 CST Rain could be an unwelcome entry at the Rose Parade on New
Year's Day. Bundle up for NYC ball drop
Rain could be an unwelcome entry at the Rose Parade on New Year's Day. Bundle
up for NYC ball drop
By ED WHITE
Associated Press
For the first time in 20 years, rain could be an intruder at the Rose Parade in
Southern California, a venerable New Year's Day event that attracts thousands
of spectators and is watched by millions more on TV.
Storms caused Christmas week flooding, mudslides and other miseries across the
region. Now comes a 90% chance of rain Thursday in Pasadena, according to the
National Weather Service.
"We try not to say that word around here," joked Candy Carlson, a spokesperson
for the Pasadena Tournament of Roses, the organization behind the 137th Rose
Parade, which precedes the Rose Bowl College Football Playoff game.
On New Year's Eve in New York City, forecasters are predicting temperatures in
the low 30s, which is not unusual, when the ball drops in Times Square. Light
rain is possible in Las Vegas, where several casinos will be shooting fireworks
from rooftops.
During Nashville's Big Bash, a New Year's Eve event at a park, temperatures
will be in the low 30s when an illuminated music note drops at midnight in the
Tennessee city. New Orleans will be in the 40s for a free concert and fireworks
along the Mississippi River.
At the Rose Parade, it has rained only 10 times in the parade's history --- and
not since 2006, Carlson said.
Rare wet weather is unlikely to keep floats, marching bands, entertainers and
others from participating. Carlson said people riding on floats will have rain
gear if necessary, and tow trucks will be standing by in case of mechanical
problems.
Spectators will need to prepare, too. Umbrellas are not allowed in parade
seating areas that require tickets, though the ban doesn't cover people who
simply line up along the nearly 6-mile (9.6 kilometer) route. Curbside camping
--- no tents --- begins at noon Wednesday. Rain also is predicted that day.
"Last year's parade theme was ?Best Day Ever!' and six days later it was the
worst," said Lisa Derderian, spokesperson for the city of Pasadena, referring
to the devastating Eaton wildfire in Los Angeles County. "We want to start the
new year on a high note. Hopefully Mother Nature cooperates with the weather."
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