Short answer: Flags are currently at half-mast/half-staff in various jurisdictions to honor notable individuals who have recently died or to observe designated memorial days. The exact reason depends on the location you’re asking about. Context and likely reasons today

• National and state authorities sometimes order U.S. and state flags to fly at half-staff to mourn a prominent figure or to observe a specific memorial event. This can include former officials or military personnel, or to mark national days of remembrance.
• Some universities and local governments align with these orders and will lower their flags accordingly, though private entities are not always required to follow federal or state proclamations.

What to check for your exact location

• If you share your city, state, or institution (e.g., a school or campus), I can point to the official proclamation or policy that specifies who is being honored and for how long the flags will remain at half-staff today.
• If you’d prefer a quick answer without location details, you can look for today’s official proclamations from the governor or mayor, or check your state’s or city’s official website under “flags at half-staff” or “proclamations.”