Indy 500 weather forecast: Rain delays start of race

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

Storms 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.

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.

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.

UPDATE 1:55 p.m. ET There is a weather window approaching the track, with the potential for the track to be ready around 4:30 to 5 p.m. ET.

UPDATE 3:50 p.m. ET: Here is the updated schedule of events with the green flag now set for 4:44 p.m. ET.