FIA declares ‘Rain Hazard’ as Miami GP weather concerns grow

The Sprint Race, which followed yesterday’s Sprint Qualifying session, has just wrapped up, with qualifying for the main Grand Prix now set to get underway. Bright sunshine has accompanied the opening two days on track, with ideal conditions also expected for qualifying, which is due to begin in just under two hours.

However, much of the uncertainty surrounds tomorrow, when the big points will be handed out and the winner of the fourth round of the season will be decided. Lando Norris has so far enjoyed a weekend very much in line with what was seen here last year, while McLaren have once again emerged as a highly competitive force.

“In accordance with Article B1.5.11 of the FIA F1 Regulations, having received a forecast from the Official Weather Service predicting that the probability of precipitation will be greater than 40% at some time during the Race at this Competition, a ‘Rain Hazard’ is declared,” the FIA document reads.

The FIA’s decision to declare a ‘Rain Hazard’ for the Miami Grand Prix comes amid growing uncertainty surrounding Sunday’s weather conditions. While rain itself would not necessarily represent a major issue for Formula 1, the situation becomes far more sensitive in Florida due to the strict protocols in place regarding thunderstorms and lightning.

The National Weather Service applies particularly cautious guidelines for outdoor sporting events, with any visible lightning, audible thunder or threatening skies already treated as signs of a nearby storm. In many cases, activities are suspended as soon as lightning is detected within roughly 8 miles (13 kilometres) of the venue.

Florida is also known for rapidly developing thunderstorms, which can form directly above an area with little warning, making constant weather monitoring essential throughout the weekend. At the moment, however, forecasts do not appear severe enough to suggest a repeat of the kind of major disruptions seen at other events in the past.