Rain on the parade? 60% chance of thunderstorms July 4

Packing for Independence Day festivities typically means adding in the sunscreen and the lawn chair.

This year, it may include packing the umbrella, although the forecast is not calling for a Fourth of July washout, especially for afternoon activities and fireworks.

The National Weather Service in Duluth reported showers are likely along with thunderstorms before 1 p.m. in the Brainerd lakes area. The afternoon comes with a chance of showers and thunderstorms, and a summertime high near 81 degrees beneath cloudy skies. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent.

While the sun may not be plentiful -- mostly cloudy skies are forecast throughout the day July 4 -- winds are expected to be calm all day at 5 mph. Friday has a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms with possible high about 79 degrees. The weekend promises to be sunny with highs near 80.