This Sunday, PBS is set to broadcast the 35th annual National Memorial Day Concert, hosted by Joe Mantegna and Gary Sinise. The event, which will feature all-star performances and tributes from Washington, D.C., aims to honor United States servicemen and women, military families, veterans, and those who have given their lives for the nation.
Celebrities will share real-life stories from U.S. military history, complemented by performances from award-winning musicians and U.S. military choirs and ensembles.
The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the Joint Chiefs of Staff will also address the audience, highlighting the value of military service and the challenges faced by veterans and their families.
Memorial Day Events in Metro Phoenix
Memorial Day, a time to commemorate those who lost their lives defending the United States, will see cities and towns around metro Phoenix holding various events throughout the weekend. These events are designed to honor the fallen and celebrate their contributions.
The weekend is expected to be packed with activities, including Fan Fusion, Arizona Diamondbacks and Phoenix Mercury games, and other events across the Valley.
Reopening of Northbound State Route 87 in Fountain Hills
The northbound lanes on State Route 87 in Fountain Hills reopened on Sunday afternoon after being shut down due to a fatal crash near Shea Boulevard.
The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) had previously warned drivers to expect delays and seek alternate routes until the road was cleared.
The Arizona Department of Public Safety reported that three people were killed in a wrong-way crash early Sunday morning, which necessitated the temporary closure.
Traffic and Weather Updates
As the Memorial Day weekend progresses, heavy traffic is expected, particularly with the reopening of State Route 87. Drivers are advised to stay alert and plan their routes accordingly.
The weather forecast for the Phoenix area predicts clear skies and triple-digit temperatures on Memorial Day, with a high of around 103 degrees and a low of 76 degrees.
These temperatures are expected to remain consistent throughout the week. For those looking to escape the heat, Flagstaff offers a cooler alternative with a high of 77 degrees and a low of 40 degrees on Memorial Day.
However, travelers should be aware of potential haze and gusts of up to 21 mph in the Flagstaff area, as forecasted by the National Weather Service.
Continued Closure and Reopening of State Route 87
Earlier on Sunday, the northbound lanes of State Route 87 were closed due to the crash at milepost 187 near Shea Boulevard. Traffic was diverted at Gilbert Road, and it was uncertain when the road would reopen.
By Sunday afternoon, ADOT confirmed that the northbound lanes had reopened, though southbound lanes remained unaffected throughout the incident.
Heat Relief Centers Open on Memorial Day
Despite the closure of Phoenix city facilities on Memorial Day, several heat relief centers will remain open to provide respite from the heat.
The City of Phoenix announced via social media that these centers would continue to operate throughout the holiday.
Summary
As Arizona commemorates Memorial Day 2024, residents and visitors can expect a mix of celebrations and somber remembrances.
The reopening of State Route 87 in Fountain Hills marks a return to normalcy after a tragic accident, while events across the Valley provide opportunities to honor those who have served the nation.
With clear skies and high temperatures forecasted, those planning to travel should stay informed about road conditions and make use of available heat relief centers.
