Good morning. Here are 5 Things to Know for Wednesday, July 4, 2018.
1. It's Independence Day!
Happy Independence Day! Many communities around Colorado have canceled their Independence day fireworks displays due to high fire danger this year but we've rounded up a list of where you can still see a good show for the 4th of July. Find a show near you: https://bit.ly/2NfRjPT
2. First Alert Action Day issued
There will be a chance for strong afternoon thunderstorms on the Fourth of July and again on Thursday as cooler slightly more humid air moves into Colorado behind a weak cold front. Temperatures will not be as high with readings in the upper 80s for Denver and the eastern plains.
3. New wildfires erupt in Colorado
It remains hot and dry across most of Colorado as firefighters continue to battle several large wildfires that have forced people out of their homes. The latest fire to erupt in the state is the Lake Christine Fire burning near Basalt. The Eagle County blaze sprung up Tuesday and has forced several people out of their homes.
4. ICE protest planned today
Protesters plan to gather at an Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention facility in Aurora today, calling for families that have been separated at the border to be reunited. Rep. Mike Coffman said Tuesday that he visited the facility, which is currently holding 42 adults who were separated from their children.
5. CDOT wants your input on I-70 express lane plans
The Colorado Department of Transportation is asking the public to weigh in on plans to add a new express lane on westbound I-70 during peak travel times. CDOT says the toll lanes are needed because there are more cars on the road than ever before and those numbers are only expected to increase.