Pilots didn’t need to be briefed on the weather to know that Friday morning’s race would be canceled. They only had to look at the flags flapping in the breeze at the Natchez Visitor Reception Center.

Winds as high as 17 miles per hour and a cloud ceiling lower than allowed caused officials to scrub the morning race. Forecasts predict clearing skies and reduced wind speeds which should provide better flying conditions for the weekend, officials said.

Balloon Glow starts at 6 p.m. in various areas in Natchez and on the Vidalia Riverfront, including the balloon festival site near Rosalie.

To receive up-to-the minute text alerts and e-mail alerts for this year’s balloon race go to the following link:

Balloon Race Alerts