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More than 30,000 spectators are expected to watch the U.S. Navy's Blue Angels rip open the skies when they make their first visit to Utah Saturday and Sunday, putting their fighter jets through precision acrobatics over St. George.

Because of the show's anticipated popularity, city and Navy officials are encouraging viewers to arrive early at the St. George Municipal Airport to help alleviate traffic congestion. Gates will open at 9 a.m. both days, with the fleet of six blue and gold F-18 Hornets scheduled to take to the skies at about noon for their first performances in southern Utah.

Brooke Difatta, a spokeswoman for the air show, said in addition to the Blue Angels, the show will include a wing walker and a demonstration of a U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, the most advanced fighter aircraft in the world. The C-130 aircraft that supports the air team will also perform.

Static displays of vintage aircraft, food and other activities for families and children are also part of the event. Entertainment will include the reenactment of a World War II land battle featuring restored P-51 Mustangs from the era.

St. George Mayor Daniel McArthur said parking around the airport will be expanded by clearing off three lots surrounding the airport. He encourages visitors to be patient, especially in construction zones that include a portion of Interstate 15.

"When we have a traffic problem is when someone gets impatient and causes an accident, and that can really cause a backup," he said.

Airport manager Richard Steimeier said officials are watching weather forecasts closely. Their concern is for Sunday when predicted rain could cancel the show if the dirt parking lots become quagmires.

"If they [parking lots] become really nasty because they are saturated, then it becomes a safety concern," he said. "It all depends on Mother Nature."

If the show is cancelled either day, ticket holders will be sent an e-mail. Refunds will not be given, but an unused ticket will be valid at any other Blue Angels air show.

Larry Bulloch, the city's public works director, said there are no major closures or detours planned for road construction projects during high-volume traffic hours in the city.

Kevin Kitchen, Utah Department of Transportation spokesman for southern Utah, said the biggest possible bottleneck in St. George is a section of Interstate 15 just south of the Bluff Street interchange that could last until August. The construction project is intended to relieve traffic congestion at exits and on-ramps regulating east-west traffic flows through the city.

Travelers can learn more about construction projects by visiting udot.utah.gov. —

Southern Thunder

What • Thunder Over Utah air show featuring U.S. Navy Blue Angels.

When • Saturday and Sunday. Gates will open both days at 9 a.m.

Where • St. George Municipal Airport. From Interstate 15 at Exit 2, head east to Airport Parkway.

Tickets • General admission is $20 for 16 and up; free for 15 and under. Tickets at the gate are $25. Parking permits: $5 per vehicle in advance, $10 day of event. Special seating area tickets range from $30 to $150 in advance.

Tickets can be ordered in advance online at thunderoverutah.com.