First chance of rain in F1 2024 at the Australian Grand Prix

There is a slight chance of rain for qualifying at the Australian Grand Prix weekend in Melbourne this weekend. So far, the 2024 season has seen events in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia where the threat of rain has never been beyond 2 or 3%. That said, the chance of rain only reaches a maximum of 10% on Saturday at Albert Park. It is also slightly cooler for F1 compared to years gone by.

After two races in the Middle East, Formula 1 now moves to Australia. The Australian Grand Prix has often been the opening race of the F1 weekend in the past; this year, it is the third race on the F1 calendar. The Grand Prix, unlike the races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, will also be held on Sunday again, although European viewers will have to get up early.

What is the weather forecast for the Australian GP?

Weather.com reports that the three days of F1 action will see temperatures reach a peak of 20-22c during the day. Exact temperatures at exact times are not yet known, but with the events in the early afternoon, we can expect them to be close to that peak temperature.

On Friday, there is just 7% chance of rain, which increases very slightly to 10% on Saturday for qualifying. This is the first chance of rain during an event day in 2024, though it is still unlikely to cause any problems. It is expected to be cloudy, so track temperatures might not be that high.

There are 9-11mph winds forecast across the weekend. Due to the delays last year with the red flags, light was fading rather quickly. This season, the event takes place earlier in the calendar year. The sun will set around 7:30pm local time which means there should be no problems regarding the setting sun this year.