Newcastle’s New Year’s Eve Fireworks have been cancelled due to high winds across the region.
Many people were looking forward to watching the firework display as Newcastle City Council announced the return of two displays to welcome in the New Year. It would have been the first New Year celebrations to include fireworks since the Covid pandemic as previous years have featured a laser show.
However, the council have taken the decision to cancel both the 6pm and midnight firework displays due to high winds which could pose a risk to safety. The council said: “The forecast has made it clear that continuing would pose risks to those attending, as well as our event teams working on-site.”
It comes after the Met Office issued a yellow weather warning across the North East which is in place until 11pm tonight. Forecasters warn that the region could see winds of up to 70mph, as well as some travel disruption.
The Met Office states: “Strong and gusty southwesterly winds will develop across southern Scotland and northeast England on Tuesday morning, veering to westerly during the evening. Gusts of 50 to 60 mph are expected, perhaps reaching 70 mph in a few exposed areas, and this may lead to some travel disruption.”
The weather warning is among several in place across the UK at the moment, including an amber warning for rain in some parts of Scotland. Some areas of Scotland have also been issued with a weather warning for snow and on Monday Edinburgh’s outdoor Hogmanay celebrations were also cancelled.
Newcastle City Council have apologised to those who had planned to attend the celebrations in Newcastle and wished everyone a “very safe and happy New Year.”
A Newcastle City Council spokesperson said: “We know many were looking forward to celebrating New Year’s Eve on the Quayside with our spectacular fireworks displays, but due to strong gusty winds and a yellow weather warning issued by the Met Office, we’ve had to take the tough decision to cancel the planned events at 6pm and midnight.
“Safety always comes first, and the forecast has made it clear that continuing would pose risks to those attending, as well as our event teams working on-site.
“Newcastle’s Quayside is a special place to mark New Year’s Eve, and we understand how disappointing this news will be for both residents and visitors, including those who’ve travelled to our city. We’re incredibly proud of the community spirit Newcastle always shows, and we hope everyone can still find ways to safely welcome 2025 with family and friends.
“We’d like to thank everyone for their understanding and patience, and we wish you all a very safe and happy New Year.”
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