WBRZ - Baton Rouge

SHREVEPORT, La.- Shreveport and Bossier City have banned fireworks sales through the end of June because of a drought and a forecast that calls for more hot, dry conditions.

Shreveport Fire Chief Brian Crawford told The Times that it was a difficult decision because of the tradition of shooting fireworks around July 4 and financial hits to fireworks vendors.

City-sponsored fireworks will be allowed to launch from a barge in Red River.

But Bossier City Mayor Lo Walker said Louisiana Downs won't be permitted to host its Fourth of July show. Both cities typically allow a 10- to 12-day fireworks sales period in conjunction with the holiday.