Flags are out today primarily because U.S. flags are being flown at half-staff nationwide to honor the victims of a recent mass shooting at the Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis. President Donald Trump ordered the flags to be lowered from August 27 until sunset on August 31, 2025, as a sign of respect and mourning for the two children killed and others injured in the tragedy. This act of lowering the flags is a national symbol of mourning and remembrance. Additionally, some states like Louisiana and Kansas have their own flag lowering or tributes for other significant events, such as the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina and a tribute to a respected judge who recently passed away.

In the UK, there has been an increase in local flag displays across cities and towns as an expression of pride and patriotism, particularly the Union Flag and St George's flag. This movement has been associated with groups like the Weoley Warriors who aim to demonstrate pride in English history and achievements, although this has been somewhat controversial.

Therefore, if the flags observed are U.S. flags at half-staff, it is likely in mourning for the Minneapolis school shooting victims, while in the UK, flags are appearing due to local patriotic movements.