Indy 500 weather forecast: Rain delays start of race

Severe weather will sweep across Indiana on Sunday, which could delay the start of the 108th running of the Indianapolis 500.

Storms are expected to hit the Indianapolis area around 12 p.m. ET, 45 minutes before the scheduled start of the Indy 500. According to the IndyStar, rain accumulation could reach three quarters of an inch, which means it could be hours until the track is dry enough.

Indianapolis Motor Speedway has at least a 34% chance of rain every hour through midnight, so it’s possible that there won’t be any dry window to begin the race on Sunday. Monday’s forecast calls for a cloudy day with less potential for rain.

Below is a rough timing of the expected broken line of storms currently across Illinois. Damaging winds would be the primary threats, but most areas are not expected to see gusts in excess of 60mph with this first round. #INwx pic.twitter.com/I5eMnggOA1

— NWS Indianapolis (@NWSIndianapolis) May 26, 2024

Lightning could also be an issue for track officials. The track announced that fans will be asked to leave the grandstands if lightning is approaching, even if the immediate area around the track is clear.

What would a weather delay mean for Kyle Larson’s attempt at The Double? The IndyStar reports that Larson will remain in Indianapolis through the weather delays, and that Rick Hendrick is “committed” to Larson’s run in the 500.

Storms chasing a boundary towards Indianapolis. Good news is development ahead of that line appears to be limiting severe potential. I think track drying could get underway as early as 2:30 EST pic.twitter.com/fUqmf6PIZy

— Daniel Nyman (@DanielNymanTV) May 26, 2024

UPDATE 11:25 a.m. ET: Indianapolis Motor Speedway is clearing the grandstands and other spectator areas because of the weather, and the start of the 2024 Indy 500 will be delayed.

Given the proximity of lightning moving toward the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, a decision has been made to pause the pre-race ceremonies and move fans out of the grandstands and Snake Pit.
 
Spectators are encouraged to follow the instructions of IMS team members. They should… pic.twitter.com/Yk9W2AVOpr

— Indianapolis Motor Speedway (@IMS) May 26, 2024