Campers stake out prime viewing spots for Tuesday's fireworks show

MILWAUKEE -- Dozens of tents were set up Monday, July 2nd in Veterans Park along Milwaukee's lakefront in anticipation of the big U.S. Bank fireworks show Tuesday night, July 3rd. People started staking out their spots as early as 6:00 a.m. Monday -- well over 24 hours before the bright lights are set to fill the sky over Lake Michigan.

Those camping out overnight and during the day Tuesday will have to deal with intense heat. The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory beginning at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday. The NWS says temperatures will be around 100 degrees on Tuesday and in the 90s the remainder of the week. Heat indexes could range from 95 to 105. 

Additionally, the NWS says the lake breeze likely won't cool the lakefront on Tuesday, so those awaiting fireworks could be in for triple-digit temperatures!

For those already at the lakefront Monday, the high temperatures and humidity weren't going to stop them from securing prime seating for the fireworks show.

Lori Levine has been setting up tents for the fireworks in Veterans Park for 20 years. She knows this year will be hotter than most.

"We have water guns, we have water balloons, we have misters and if all else fails, we`ll go down to Bradford Beach and take a dip," Levine said.

Monday evening, some campers lit grills and tossed frisbees, while others stayed cool in their tents.

"We've got a little breeze coming through the window," Tina and Billy Williams said.

A slight breeze from the lake offered some relief and helped clear away the foggy haze that settled above the grounds. Experienced campers said they're ready for Tuesday's heat, and say any discomfort they may feel is worth it.

"It`s a fun family tradition. It's one day we know I`m gonna have the kids here and they`re gonna bring their friends," Levine said.

Campers say if they run out of ice or water there are usually people who sell it right on the grounds.

For those watching fireworks from the Summerfest grounds, the water policy has been modified for Tuesday. Summerfest attendees will be able to bring in unopened bottles of water and empty, collapsible water bottles.

The U.S. Bank fireworks begin at dusk, Tuesday — approximately 9:25 p.m.

If you can’t make it down to the lakefront on Tuesday, watch the entire U.S. Bank fireworks show on FOX6 — in high-definition! Coverage starts at 9:00 p.m.

CLICK HERE for additional information on Fourth of July events in the City of Milwaukee.

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