This July Fourth holiday could be dimmer than usual across the South after officials imposed bans on the sale and use of fireworks amid persistent drought and some of the worst wildfires in recorded history.
Officials from Florida to Arizona have prohibited the use of fireworks to reduce the risk of more wildfires. They are also asking counties and residents where bans aren’t in place to give up holiday displays.
New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez on Wednesday ordered state police officers to help enforce bans and restrictions put in place across parts of the state. “The conditions in New Mexico are simply too dangerous for anyone to buy, sell or use fireworks this summer,” she said in a statement.
Full story: A Fourth of July without fireworks?