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Why Albuquerque is the perfect place for a hot air balloon event

AccuWeather · New
AccuWeather
AccuWeather
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There's a unique weather phenomenon, known as the 'Albuquerque Box,' that makes the New Mexico city work better for the International Balloon Fiesta than any other site in the world.

Breakdown
  • Albuquerque hosts the largest hot air balloon festival in the world, with 600 balloons. 9s
  • The festival began in 1972 with just 13 balloons. 13s
  • Cool, stable air in the mornings and evenings creates ideal ballooning conditions. 31s
  • The city's geography, including the Sandia Mountains and valley, influences local wind patterns. 58s
  • The 'Albuquerque box' allows balloons to return to their launch site by using different wind directions at varying altitudes. 1m 42s
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