LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Thunder Over Louisville is one of the nations largest firework shows. However, massive crowds lead to a traffic one of the city's biggest traffic nightmares.
Despite the expected traffic delays, Kentucky Derby Festival President Matt Gibson promises the show will be worth it.
"Our designer this year is a master at finales, and really coordinating something that looks very magical," he said.
Meanwhile, as crews prepare for Thunder on the ground, the U.S. Coast Guard is monitoring the Ohio River, which is creeping up on Waterfront Park's Great Lawn and submerging some trees on the shoreline.
As of Tuesday afternoon, the current river level is just under 21 feet.
"It's supposed to drop down to 16 feet by Saturday," Officer in Charge Hali Lombardi said. "But that's not including the rain that we're supposed to get in the next two days. So please just keep an eye on that if you do plan on launching a recreational boat."
As with prior years, TARC routes are also free for Thunder. This year, they're running over 60 vehicles across five downtown stops. Westbound buses leave from 9th and Main Street; Eastbound buses leave from Floyd and Market Street.
But no matter how you get to Thunder Over Louisville, all the departments making sure the event runs smoothly hope you bring a little patience.
LMPD's Traffic Unit officials are also warning drivers to avoid drinking and driving.
"Last Thunder, we had a fatal collision unrelated to Thunder events out at Newburg Road and Shepherdsville Road. I would really like to go this year without having to make a scene like that. So please, be responsible if you're drinking alcohol," Lieutenant Craig Browning said.
And for first responders and festival organizers, the mayor encourages appreciation.
"I hope the entire community joins me in thanking all of these folks to make Thunder such a unique and special event for our community year after year after year."
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