Smithfield has canceled its National Night Out festivities citing inclement weather.

The outdoor event intended to strengthen community-police relationships was scheduled for 5-7 p.m. tonight at the Luter Sports Complex.

Police Chief Alonzo Howell said at the Town Council’s Sept. 23 committee meetings that the event would be held rain or shine unless there was a forecasted thunderstorm. According to the National Weather Service’s Wakefield station, thunderstorms are in the forecast before and after 5 p.m.

“Due to the impending weather, we have unfortunately made the decision to cancel National Night Out tonight,” the Police Department posted to its Facebook page at noon. “The safety of our community is our top priority, and we believe this is the best course of action for everyone involved. We’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to our sponsors and community members who helped plan and support this event. Your dedication and effort do not go unnoticed, and we are grateful for all your hard work.”

Howell, on Sept. 23, said it would have been “practically impossible” to move the event indoors due to the number of vendors who had expressed interest in participating.

While many police and sheriff’s departments observe the date nationally on the first Tuesday in August, Smithfield is among the departments that instead observe the first Tuesday in October when temperatures are typically more conducive to an outdoor event. Surry County’s Sheriff’s Office and the Windsor Police Department and Isle of Wight County Sheriff’s Office each participated in events on Aug. 6.

Area residents will have another opportunity to show their support for Smithfield Police and the Smithfield Volunteer Fire Department on Nov. 2 when the two departments will play against each other in a softball match at the Luter Sports Complex.

The 5 p.m. game is free to attend. Each department will also sell raffle tickets for $5 apiece or five for $20 to win gift cards and other prizes, including a Blackstone grill.

Bleacher seating is limited. Attendees can bring their own chairs. Concessions will be available courtesy of the Smithfield Recreation Association.