The Ultimate Guide to At-Home Firework Displays – Pt 17 – Dealing With Different Weather Conditions

There’s nothing quite like the thrill of a great fireworks display, whether it's to celebrate Bonfire Night, New Year’s Eve, or just because. But, of course, if you're in the UK, you know full well that the weather here can change on a whim. One minute you’re basking in sunshine, and the next, you’re battling a gust of wind and torrential rain.

So, before you set up that stunning show in your garden, you’d better give a thought to the weather.

In this section of our Ultimate Guide to At-Home Firework Displays, we’ll cover how to navigate the various weather conditions that might crop up, and how to make sure your display goes off without a hitch—even if the skies don’t cooperate.

Rain: It’s Only Water—Or Is It?

Let’s face it, rain and fireworks don’t exactly get along. If you’ve ever been caught in a downpour right before the big countdown, you’ll know that damp conditions can affect everything from the ignition of the fuse to the brightness of the colours in the sky. Fireworks are, by nature, designed to be pretty sturdy, but water can still throw a spanner in the works.

Here’s the good news: a little rain doesn’t have to ruin your display. First things first, protect your fireworks from the wet stuff before you light them. Waterproof covers are your best friend here, ensuring the fuses stay dry until you’re ready to go. If the rain is particularly persistent, you may need to set up quickly and fire them off promptly, so they don’t sit around in the moisture for too long.

If the forecast is looking particularly damp, consider using fireworks designed for wet conditions. Some fireworks are more resistant to humidity and won’t fizzle out the minute the sky darkens. Just make sure to give your display a bit of extra TLC, and remember: don’t hesitate to adjust your plans if the rain’s getting a bit too heavy.

To find our more about putting on a firework display in the rain make sure you check out our article Will Fireworks Work in the Rain where we share even more tips for how to put on a great display, with advice on the best fireworks to choose and the best ways to light them in wet conditions.

Wind: Blowing Away Your Best-Laid Plans

Wind. The true nemesis of any firework enthusiast. While a gentle breeze might add a bit of drama to your rocket’s flight, strong gusts can cause serious safety concerns. The last thing you want is a wayward firework veering off-course and heading straight for your prized begonias—or worse, the neighbour’s roof.

So, what do you do if the wind is picking up?

First, keep a close eye on the weather forecast in the days leading up to your display. If wind speeds are over the recommended 5-10 mph, it’s probably time to reconsider your plans or postpone. Even if it’s a little breezy, positioning your fireworks with the wind direction in mind is key. Fireworks should always be fired away from spectators, houses, and any other vulnerable spots.

If you can, opt for lower-altitude fireworks that are less affected by the wind, such as fountains or wheels. They’ll still give you a great display without all the drama of unpredictable flight paths.

Cold Weather: Chilling, But Not Killing Your Show

Cold weather isn’t usually a dealbreaker when it comes to fireworks, but it can certainly affect how well they perform. When temperatures plummet, fireworks can be slower to ignite, and the effects might not be quite as vibrant. But don’t let that dampen your festive spirit—it’s not all doom and gloom.

First, make sure to store your fireworks in a dry, insulated place before the big night. Don’t leave them in a place that’s exposed to the elements. If there’s snow or ice on the ground, clear it away from your firing area to avoid slips and slides—both for you and for your fireworks.

Cold air can also affect the ignition of the fuses, so you may need to be a bit more patient when lighting up. Gloves are a must here, not just to keep your fingers from freezing but also to give you a better grip on those fuses and lighters. As with rain, be extra careful to protect the fireworks from moisture, and check that the fuses are nice and dry before striking the match.

The tips and advice we shared in our article Will Fireworks Work in the Rain also relate to snow and cold so do give it a read if you're planning a display in these conditions.

Heatwaves: When the Sun’s Out, the Fire Risk’s Up

Summer is great. Barbecues, beers, and of course, fireworks. But with heatwaves come high risks—particularly when it comes to fire hazards. Dry conditions can turn a simple firework display into a potential disaster, so always be mindful of your surroundings.

Start by making sure the launch area is clear of dry grass, leaves, or anything else that might catch fire easily. A patch of ground that’s free of flammable materials is your best bet, and if it’s been a particularly hot summer, think twice before firing anything off. Also, it’s wise to have fire extinguishers and water sources on hand. Yes, it sounds dramatic, but better safe than sorry.

Don’t forget that you’ll need to store your fireworks in a cool, shaded area until it’s time to light them. Overheating fireworks before the show can be risky, so keep them in a safe spot and do not let the sun cook them like sausages on a grill.

Fog: Can’t See the Fireworks, But You Can Hear Them

The classic British weather condition that can make fireworks displays more mysterious than majestic. If you’ve got a thick fog rolling in, don’t expect a crisp, clear view of the fireworks exploding in their full glory. But, all is not lost.

When visibility is low, focus on using fireworks with bigger effects—something that can shine through the fog, like large rockets or barrages. Big, bright bursts are more likely to cut through the mist, so you won’t lose the visual drama. For added impact, think about incorporating sound into your display with unusual sound effects. The crackling and whistling of fireworks, combined with some well-timed music, can help make up for the fact that you can’t see much past the front gate.

Sometimes, fog can make it dangerous to go ahead with your plans if it’s particularly thick and reducing visibility to a dangerous level. In these cases, don’t be afraid to delay your display. After all, safety first, and it’s better to wait for the fog to lift than to risk misfires and lost effects.

Dealing with the Weather: Plan B is Your Best Friend

With a bit of prep and flexibility, different weather conditions don’t have to derail your plans. Always keep a close eye on the forecast and have a backup plan. If things get too wild, postpone the show or make adjustments. After all, fireworks are meant to be a fun experience—not a stressful one.

Make sure you’ve got all the right safety gear, and remember that no matter the weather, it’s better to be over-prepared than to be caught out by a surprise downpour or gust of wind. A little bit of caution and planning will go a long way to making sure your firework display is as dazzling as the fireworks themselves.

With all this in mind, you’ll be able to manage whatever weather conditions come your way—rain or shine, wind or snow.

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