Balloon Fiesta 2008

We will update this page each day throughout the fiesta with the latest forecast from Richard and Ian Fergusson at the weekend.

Updated: Thursday 7, August 2008 at 4.40pm

The forecast for this year's International Balloon Fiesta remains rather depressing particularly with regards to Saturday's weather. Nevertheless there will be some reasonable weather and we are sure to see at least two mass ascents at this year's event.

Thursday: The Night Glow is under threat from some heavy showers during the evening but the event will probably  go ahead regardless.

Friday may start rather cloudy with bit of a westerly breeze. Some of the 'special shapes' may find the winds a little brisk but there is a chance that at least some balloons will fly. The weather is expected to improve throughout the day, so there is every chance that flying will take place on Friday evening with the balloons heading southeastwards towards Keynsham and beyond.

Saturday will be a blow-out. Heavy rain and strong southwesterly winds make the chances of any flights during the day almost nil. The scheduled Night Glow may still go ahead, providing the expected improvement during the early evening takes place and the ground is not waterlogged.

Sunday looks rather more promising now. Despite a good deal of cloud, winds look to be slightly lighter than previously. So there may be some ballooning action later in the weekend.